Meghan Markle is reportedly feeling embarrassed by a stinging remark made by one of her Montecito neighbors.
It appears that the community isn’t exactly welcoming the Duke and Duchess of Sussex with open arms. Here’s what’s happening, based on an article from The Express: a local resident expressed surprise when he discovered that Meghan and Prince Harry had moved into the area. Montecito is known for being a quiet enclave primarily inhabited by older residents, which made the couple's arrival unexpected. The resident remarked that Meghan and Harry, along with their two children, Archie and Lilibet, chose to settle in a place where "the elephants come to die."
This seven-word jab carries a stinging implication. It suggests that Montecito, often considered a retreat for the older, ultra-wealthy, isn’t the place for young celebrities like Meghan and Harry. To put it in more blunt terms, the phrase could be interpreted as, “This is where ex-royals come to fade into irrelevance.” Since leaving the royal family and moving to California, the Sussexes have faced several setbacks, with their public ventures falling flat and their once-glistening popularity seemingly waning. Locals seem to perceive their presence as out of place in a community of established, older elites.
One particular resident, Frank McGinty, a U.S. Navy veteran, shared his disappointment after his attempt to introduce himself to the couple was thwarted by their security team. “People here are typically older—it’s where the elephants come to die,” he quipped, revealing his surprise at the couple's choice of residence. He also noted that he had no interest in becoming their neighbor after that cold reception. This is quite different from the norm in Montecito, where it’s common to greet and get to know your neighbors. For example, another resident mentioned that when they moved into the area, they went around knocking on doors and introducing themselves—a common practice. However, it appears that Meghan and Harry have chosen to keep to themselves, distancing themselves from the community.
The question arises: why are they so isolated? Are they perhaps concerned about being received unfavorably by their neighbors? This speculation isn’t entirely unwarranted. Montecito is home to many extremely wealthy and influential individuals, some of whom are reportedly wealthier than Meghan and Harry. In the eyes of some locals, the couple may not even measure up financially, which may explain why they’re keeping their distance. Do you need to be a celebrity like Oprah Winfrey or Ellen DeGeneres to truly fit in?
The discontent with the Sussexes doesn’t end there. Another neighbor, Richard Mineards, expressed disappointment in an interview with The Telegraph, noting that despite the community’s eagerness to welcome Meghan and Harry, they are rarely seen. Barry Meyer echoed these sentiments, telling The Mirror that their absence is a growing source of frustration among residents. Meyer also pointed out that their house sits in one of the most expensive areas, yet the couple seems to be keeping a low profile, only being spotted when they are on the move, often in a car.
Some residents, like Mineards, might be holding out hope that Meghan will eventually engage with the community. Perhaps if she’s informed of a local hotspot, she might make an appearance. Still, the general sentiment seems to be that their presence has created unnecessary drama, something Montecito’s quiet and wealthy community doesn’t particularly appreciate.
Ultimately, many residents would be content if Meghan and Harry faded into the background, as suggested by the now-infamous "where the elephants come to die" comment. Their decision to remain reclusive has led to growing irritation, and some neighbors speculate that the couple might not be able to sustain their lifestyle for much longer. According to a French documentary, Harry and Meghan: A Royal Business, which aired last year, the cost of maintaining their lavish Montecito estate is quite high. Given their current trajectory—marked by failed ventures and declining popularity—it’s possible that financial difficulties could eventually force them to move. If that day comes, it seems Montecito's residents may not be too upset by their departure.
