NFL Hall of Famer Troy Aikman has shared that he keeps his distance from his well-known neighbors, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, despite living in the same Montecito, California community since 2020.
In a recent interview with Us Weekly, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback revealed he has not socialized with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who reside in a $14 million home in the affluent Santa Barbara County neighborhood. Aikman stated, “I’m not hanging with them, that’s for sure.”
The 58-year-old, who was promoting his Eight Elite Light Beer brand, mentioned that while the community is aware of the royal couple’s presence, he has not personally encountered them. He suggested that anyone with general awareness knows they reside in the area.
Discussing potential common interests, Aikman humorously noted he doubts the couple would share his enthusiasm for light beer, indicating differences in lifestyle. The three-time Super Bowl winner has been part of Montecito since 1996, well before the arrival of Harry and Markle.
Aikman’s remarks mirror a range of reactions from Montecito residents regarding the royal couple. Some neighbors have expressed concerns about changes to the community since their arrival, such as increased tourist traffic and rising property prices.
Resident Richard Mineards has been outspoken about the couple’s integration into the neighborhood, claiming Markle is overly focused on public appearances. Mineards suggested residents value simplicity, even from celebrities, and alleged that Markle does not engage in community events like other famous residents.
Mineards described Prince Harry as more approachable, noting his charm and willingness to interact with locals. He mentioned Harry is often seen at local venues and cycling in the area, maintaining a good-natured presence.
Conversely, Mineards claimed Markle is rarely seen in the community, maintaining a distance from local life. He recounted an incident where an elderly historian was reportedly turned away when attempting to deliver a documentary about the area’s history as a welcome gesture.
Another neighbor, 88-year-old Navy veteran Frank McGinity, shared in his memoir that he faced similar treatment when trying to welcome the couple with films about the area’s history. McGinity reported being turned away by their security, with staff indicating the couple was not interested in his gesture.
Despite criticisms, some celebrity neighbors have defended Harry and Markle’s community involvement. Actress Sharon Stone praised them in 2020, describing them as caring and engaged members of the community who aim to contribute, not just benefit.
Stone observed the couple bicycling in the neighborhood, waving to residents, and characterized them as involved community members. Her view contrasts with other neighbors’ claims about the couple’s aloofness.
The couple has formed friendships with high-profile Montecito residents like Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King. They were also close to Ellen DeGeneres before she sold her property and moved to England.
Harry and Markle relocated to their 18,000-square-foot home after stepping back from their royal duties in January 2020. They live there with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, in a mansion with nine bedrooms, 16 bathrooms, a pool, a tennis court, a tea house, a rose garden, and a children’s cottage.
Aikman, who began his broadcasting career in 2001 following his retirement from football, is now the lead NFL commentator for ESPN’s Monday Night Football, alongside Joe Buck. The duo previously worked at Fox Sports before moving to ESPN, where they called six Super Bowls together.
