The Sussexes Under Fire: A Critical Look at “Prince Harry – The Lost Prince”
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing a new blow as some of their Montecito neighbors have stepped forward to criticize the couple.
German network ZDF has aired a new documentary, “Prince Harry – The Lost Prince,” which explores the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s life in California. Vanity Fair reported the filmmakers visited the wealthy coastal city where they spoke to locals who claimed to live near the pair.
Documentary Draws Local Fire as Sussexes Maintain Distance
“I would describe it as an encyclopedia of Harry and Meghan’s low points over the last few years,” remarked Kinsey Schofield, host of the To Di For Daily podcast. She emphasizes that the film distinctly illustrates more lows than highs during this tumultuous period. With careful observation, one can sense Meghan’s solitude, perhaps echoing whispers within their community. Yet a thought lingers—why do they seek recognition, community, and photo opportunities globally when they seem largely absent at home?
British royal expert Hilary Fordwich noted that locals have made attempts to welcome the couple into their social circles, only to be met with silence, a silence that speaks volumes.
“In terms of community, the documentary was clear that invitations from the local Montecito community to attend events have gone unanswered,” said Fordwich, making it apparent that both Harry and Meghan seem detached from the very people around them. A neighbor cynically noted that Harry’s dogs and his bodyguard might be his closest companions, painting a rather isolated picture of the royal couple.
A Family Divided: The Strain of Royal Duties Renounced
At 40 years old, Harry’s relationship with his family remains strained since stepping back from royal duties. It was a decision stemming from the invasive scrutiny and frequently racist undertones of the British press. This stance, while seemingly forgiving of their plight, complicates the existing dynamics, not just with the royals, but with their newly established community as well.
In his candid interviews and Netflix docuseries, along with his memoir titled “Spare,” he has laid bare the rocky terrain of his familial bonds, making it difficult not to feel a sense of empathy, even from critics. Meanwhile, Meghan, 43, with her Hollywood legacy and California roots, transitioned into the Duchess of Sussex upon marrying Harry in 2018—a transformation that hasn’t quite fit seamlessly into the fabric of Montecito life.
“To me, one of the biggest revelations to come out of the documentary was… that Meghan is not very popular in her neighborhood and has not been involved in the Montecito community,” Schofield observed. It’s a stark reminder that behind the charity organization Archewell’s claims of community impact lies a more complex truth: Meghan feels like an outsider in her own neighborhood.
“It gives you the sense that Meghan is as lonely and isolated as the rumors suggest. Additionally, it makes you wonder why they are so eager to chase after communities and photo ops all over the world if they aren’t even doing anything at home.”
Richard Mineards, a self-identified neighbor, lamented that Meghan’s contribution to the community is virtually nonexistent. “I don’t think that Meghan is an asset to our community,” he was quoted as saying. “She doesn’t really go out or get involved with the community. Harry has to a certain extent, because he’s quite jolly… but Meghan doesn’t seem to be seen anywhere.” It’s intriguing how public perception can form when transparency is lacking.
Reactions to the Documentary: Divided Opinions
The ZDF documentary has drawn varied reactions. Pelham Turner described it as a hatchet job on the couple, urging that they have every right to protect their privacy. He suggested that those who criticize Harry and Meghan should reflect on how they engage with the couple. After all, every individual deserves a safe space to thrive, whether they wear a crown or not.
Turner reminds viewers how complex the Sussexes’ social dynamics can be, stating that Harry and Meghan are “damned if they do” and “damned if they don’t,” emphasizing that Meghan has faced immense emotional challenges in recent years, making genuine connections all the more challenging.
Director Ulrike Grunewald remarked that working on the film provided insights into why the royals might have been cautious about the couple’s departure from their royal responsibilities. She indicated that revelations that stun the royal family often come from Harry or Meghan themselves—a point the late queen seems to have recognized in her sentiment, emphasizing the challenges of being “half in and half out.” The struggle is undeniably evident.
Grunewald mentioned that since the couple relocated to California in 2020, they continue to strive for a “legacy.” To an outside observer, however, the visible impact of their Archewell Foundation feels less significant—a mere whisper of potential in a bustling city. Yet, there remains a seed of hope that they can harness their voice for meaningful change.
Schofield highlighted a former head of royal protection’s criticism of Harry regarding revelations in his memoir about his military service, suggesting a personal conflict he now grapples with. Meanwhile, the couple battles ongoing security concerns after losing their royal protections in 2020, illustrating the ironic tension between garnering attention and yearning for anonymity.
Discussion continues in Britain about Harry’s public remarks potentially risking security for both himself and British military personnel. The dialogue around these issues tends to circle back to whether public figures truly grasp the consequences tied to their narratives, especially concerning sensitive topics like military experiences.
Fordwich suggests that while the documentary offers little in terms of new content, it strikes a chord by reinforcing known public perceptions—perceptions that seem increasingly detached from the reality the Sussexes face daily. Those sentiments culminate in opinions that might ultimately further isolate the already vulnerable couple.
Through this lens, viewers may feel a twinge of empathy for Harry and Meghan, as they seem to juggle their past, present, and a future perceived through the eyes of a public reluctant to let them redefine themselves. When they pursue opportunities, it seems to draw as much criticism as praise, leaving many to reflect on the real price of fame—perhaps a loneliness cloaked in celebrity.
The Sussexes face a profound dilemma; they hold their lives in their own hands yet appear unsteady amid the scrutiny. A bit of humor occasionally surfaces in interviews, providing moments of levity, but beneath those smiles lie complex layers of emotional and social challenges. The tale of Harry and Meghan underscores the universal truth that everyone, regardless of their status, sometimes feels lost in the crowd. Moving forward, they may need to build bridges, not just build walls.
