Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s life in California is a stark contrast to their previous life in the UK.
Since dramatically stepping down from their royal duties four years ago, they have settled in the upscale celebrity enclave of Montecito, residing in a sprawling nine-bedroom mansion with a swimming pool.
This is a significant shift from their former UK residence at Frogmore Cottage, located within the Windsor estate where their neighbours were likely royal relatives.
In Montecito, they are surrounded by a variety of people, and some locals have shared their impressions of having the couple as neighbours, noting they seldom see them, especially Harry.
According to The Telegraph, Harry is rarely seen except when walking on the beach, biking, or occasionally dining out with his security team. Meghan also tends to keep a low profile but is more frequently spotted having lunch with friends or shopping at local markets.
Richard Mineards, a society columnist who lives near the Sussexes, mentioned that some locals are disappointed by how infrequently the couple is seen in the community.
He told the publication: ”The community is waiting for them.” He added: “They’re gnashing at the bit. The cachet of a Duke and Duchess. They live rather splendidly, it couldn’t be a nicer place. We have got a lot of very rich and very famous people here, and none of them have a security retinue like the Sussexes.”
Amid their life in California, sources reveal that Prince Harry will not consider returning to the royal fold unless he receives an apology from his estranged brother, Prince William.
The Duke of Sussex is focused on “making a success of his life” in the United States and is reportedly content with his decision to leave his royal duties. However, he remains open to taking on a temporary role within the royal family to “help out” if requested by the King.
Harry, 39, has criticised close family members, accusing both the King and Prince William of wanting to exit the royal family if possible. William and Harry have not communicated for months and chose to remain apart even when they were in the same room at their uncle Lord Fellows’ funeral in Norfolk last month.
Recent reports suggest that Harry has reached out to former trusted advisors and friends to create a “blueprint” for potentially re-engaging with UK circles.
However, The Mirror understands this is “far from his mind” and any contact with former aides is seen as “purely for strategic and friendly advice,” not an intention to return to royal duties.
Sources close to Harry indicate that, given the current state of the royal family—with the King and Princess of Wales both taking extended leaves due to health issues—Harry is willing to assist if asked.
Friends of Harry also note his desire to improve his relationship with his father, particularly in light of recent health concerns. Nevertheless, the Duke would still seek an apology from his brother if he were to represent the family in any official capacity.
