Montecito: A Life of Isolation
The couple resides in Montecito, California, a town known for its vibrant social scene and affluent residents. However, Grunewald’s documentary paints a picture of a life disconnected from the lively community. “The cultural life here is very lively but often happens in closed circles, and Harry and Meghan rarely participate. They seem to have isolated themselves a lot,” Grunewald told The Daily Mail.
This sentiment was echoed by Richard Mineards, a Montecito neighbour of the Sussexes. “Sometimes you see her at the farmers’ market or walking a dog, but generally, you don’t see much of her or him. It’s a shame. This is a lovely place,” Mineards said.
Despite their low profile, the Sussexes reportedly maintain friendships with prominent figures like Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres, who also reside in the area, as well as Tyler Perry, who serves as godfather to their daughter, Princess Lilibet. Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, lives a short drive away in Los Angeles.
Shifting Strategies and Professional Separation
According to Grunewald, the couple’s approach to life in California has shifted over the past four years. “During the year that we worked on this film, a change of strategy was recognisable in Harry and Meghan. They started out as a power duo in their new life in California. Now they mainly appear separately, as they were unable to create a functioning image together. They have come down to earth,” she observed.
Recent reports suggest that this shift extends to their professional endeavours. Meghan is reportedly preparing to launch a new venture, American Riviera Orchard, in 2025, while Harry is focused on the next edition of the Invictus Games in Canada. The 2023 event in Dusseldorf received positive reviews but faced criticism for its €40 million cost to German taxpayers.
Examining Freedom and Financial Independence
Grunewald’s film also probes whether the Sussexes have met their ambitious goals of independence. “Harry and Meghan have set the bar very high. They want to be global benefactors who bring about tangible change. So far, they have not lived up to this image at all,” she noted.The documentary examines their ability to forge an independent identity away from the royal family, highlighting the mixed results of their efforts. “I was interested in whether Harry and Meghan’s strategies for an independent life are working. After four years, the results are very mixed,” Grunewald concluded.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced their decision to step back from royal duties in early 2020, citing a desire to carve out a financially independent life. Their move to the United States was accompanied by high-profile projects, including their Netflix documentary series and Harry’s memoir, Spare. However, the couple has faced challenges in maintaining public goodwill and building a consistent public image.
