Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Face Criticism From Former Neighbours Amid UK Return
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing renewed criticism from people in their former California community following their return to Britain with their two children.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex left their Montecito life behind last month after spending six years in the affluent California enclave. Now, comments from some residents have raised questions about how warmly the couple were regarded in the community they left behind.
One of the most outspoken remarks came from Bruce Johnston, a former member of the Beach Boys, who reportedly described Harry as “a jerk” and suggested the prince may have returned to Britain to make amends with his brother.
Former Neighbour Voices Strong Criticism
The comments were discussed on this week’s Daily Expresso podcast.
Host JJ Anisiobi highlighted the criticism from a wealthy Montecito resident, while commentator Mark Dolan argued that the remarks reflected a broader perception of the Sussexes among some of their former neighbours.
The comments add to a list of public figures who have been critical of Harry and Meghan, including Piers Morgan, Noel Gallagher, Martha Stewart and Donald Trump.
However, the views expressed by individual residents do not necessarily represent the wider Montecito community.
Claims About The Sussexes’ California Departure
Designer Penny Bianchi also claimed that Harry and Meghan were “not popular” in Montecito.
She alleged that the couple had removed Archie from his school at short notice, leaving teachers to learn about the family’s relocation at the same time as others.
The claims come as Harry and Meghan focus on settling their children into their new life in Britain.
A source previously told PEOPLE that getting seven-year-old Archie and five-year-old Lilibet settled into school “has been, and remains, Meghan and Harry’s focus.”
The source said the family had been extremely busy after moving halfway across the world and that other matters would be addressed when the time was right.
Tensions Continue Around Their UK Return
The criticism from Montecito comes at a sensitive time for the Sussexes, who are also navigating renewed tensions surrounding their status within the Royal Family.
Harry and Meghan were reportedly surprised by a formal letter sent under the King’s direction to senior government and military figures. The correspondence described the couple as “private citizens,” rather than using their preferred description of “public figures.”
Their return has also generated discussion in the UK, where the couple are believed to be spending time in the Cotswolds.
Some local residents have expressed concerns about the impact of the Sussexes’ presence, with comments ranging from calls for them to be “banned” to accusations that they are “awful” and a “disgrace.”
Others have raised concerns about increased tourism and disruption to what they described as a previously quiet and peaceful area.
For Harry and Meghan, the move back to Britain therefore comes with challenges on both sides of the Atlantic — as they attempt to establish a new family life while remaining under intense public scrutiny.