Meghan Markle ‘Practically Invisible’ in Montecito, Claims Local Journalist

Meghan Markle is “practically invisible” in Montecito, a neighbor says, contrasting her distant image with Prince Harry’s charm.

Richard Mineards, a veteran reporter and Montecito resident, has alleged that the Duchess of Sussex has remained distant from the affluent community since moving into her $14 million home with Prince Harry in 2020.

 

Montecito, California | Meghan Markle is “practically invisible” in her California community and has failed to “fit in,” according to claims by a longtime neighbor and local journalist.

 

While the Duke is described as friendly and approachable, Markle is said to have “cultivated a very controlled image,” rarely interacting with neighbors.

 

“She’s there, of course, but she shows herself very little,” Mineards told Daily Mail. “Her relationship with Montecito is … distant, shall we say.”

 

Mineards recalled one incident in which an elderly historian attempted to deliver a documentary to Markle but was reportedly turned away at the gate. “The old man never got past the gate,” he said, adding, “She doesn’t play the community game.”

 

In contrast, Prince Harry is reportedly well-liked. “Harry is always charming, approachable, with that very recognizable Windsor accent,” Mineards noted. “He smiles, shakes hands, willingly exchanges a few words.”

 

Locals have allegedly spotted the Invictus Games founder at beaches, coffee shops, and cycling trails, usually accompanied by security. “Harry has kept his good-natured side,” Mineards added. “He seems more at ease here, even with his personal struggles.”

 

Despite the criticism, other locals, including actress Sharon Stone, have defended the couple. “They’ve become a giving, caring, participating part of our community,” Stone said in a 2020 interview, recalling how Markle and Harry waved at a friend from their bicycles.

 

Still, some neighbors remain skeptical of Meghan’s presence in Montecito. One resident remarked, “Normally when you see [Harry] around here, he’s walking his Labrador on the beach or on his bicycle followed by his security in a Range Rover.”

 

Meanwhile, Mineards concluded that Meghan’s image appears meticulously curated. “She pays attention to every appearance, every word, every gesture,” he said.

 

The Sussexes' home, purchased for $14 million, has reportedly doubled in value since 2020. Yet, for some locals, their integration into Montecito remains a work in progress.