A recent article published by *Vanity Fair* has stirred up a significant amount of controversy, 

particularly within royal circles, with a royal expert revealing her surprise at the publication’s harsh tone towards Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. 

The article, which appears five years after the couple’s dramatic departure from their roles as working royals, has received mixed reactions. 

Notably, Kate Mansey, royal editor for *The Times*, shared her shock on the *Unfiltered* podcast hosted by Kinsey Schofield, 

explaining that she was taken aback by the article’s critical approach. 

For years, *Vanity Fair* had been one of the outlets that provided relatively supportive coverage of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. 

However, this article painted a far more damning picture, focusing on the couple’s commercial deals since relocating to the United States and their strained relationship with their neighbors in Montecito. Mansey was particularly stunned by the publication’s pivot, revealing that she had “jaw hit the ground” upon reading the piece. 

In her appearance on the podcast, Mansey delved into the specifics of the article, noting how *Vanity Fair* had invited the couple’s neighbors to weigh in on their lives in the upscale California neighborhood. One of the key criticisms centered around their reputation as neighbors, with some alleging that the Sussexes had turned their community into a circus due to their high-profile celebrity status. These claims seemed to suggest that Meghan and Harry’s presence in Montecito had brought unwanted attention to the area, leaving some residents dissatisfied.

Mansey acknowledged that the Sussexes were likely to be particularly upset by these allegations. She expressed curiosity about what the couple’s “pinch point” would be, speculating that they might be most hurt by the portrayal of them as “bad neighbors.” This was a stark contrast to the image that the couple had worked to cultivate since stepping away from royal duties—one of community engagement and charitable efforts. 

However, as with many stories about the Sussexes, there is more than one side to the narrative. After the article’s publication, a neighbor of the couple came forward to publicly defend them. Actress Sharon Stone, who lives in the area, expressed her support for the Sussexes, telling *Hello! Magazine* that the couple had become an integral part of the Montecito community. Stone praised Harry and Meghan for their generosity and involvement, calling them “a giving, caring, participating part of our community.” 

This defense from a neighbor stands in stark contrast to the portrayal offered by *Vanity Fair*, showing that not all those who live near the Sussexes share the critical opinions expressed in the article. In fact, it seems that many of the couple’s neighbors appreciate their efforts to be a positive force in the community.

Moreover, Harry and Meghan have also demonstrated their commitment to local causes. In early 2025, they were seen volunteering to help those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. This act of service further challenges the image of the couple as self-absorbed celebrities and highlights their ongoing efforts to give back to their community. It appears that despite the controversies surrounding them, the Sussexes remain dedicated to making a positive impact on the world around them.

Ultimately, the recent *Vanity Fair* article and the subsequent reactions illustrate the complex relationship the Sussexes have with both the media and the communities they inhabit. While some media outlets continue to criticize their actions, others—such as Sharon Stone—are quick to defend their character and contributions. As the couple continues to carve out a new life in America, it remains to be seen whether the narrative around them will evolve or continue to be shaped by contrasting perspectives. 

Regardless of public opinion, it is clear that Harry and Meghan’s journey is far from over, and their legacy will continue to be a topic of intense debate for years to come.

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