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    Not a fan? Troy Aikman avoids royal neighbors Meghan and Harry


    Troy Aikman quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys in action
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    Montecito is no stranger to celebrities, royalty, and high-profile personalities. The picturesque California town, nestled in Santa Barbara County, has become a favorite spot for stars looking for luxury and privacy.

    Among the many notable names living there are NFL legend Troy Aikman and royal couple Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. While they may share the same zip code, it turns out they are far from sharing dinner parties or backyard BBQs.

    In a recent interview, Aikman gave a candid and somewhat humorous take on why he’s not rubbing shoulders with his royal neighbors, and it’s not what you’d expect.

    Troy Aikman Jokes About Not Having Much in Common With Meghan and Harry

    Troy Aikman, former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and current beer entrepreneur, was asked if he ever socializes with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. His response was quick and light-hearted.

    “I don’t think they’re drinking much light beer,” Aikman told Us Weekly, referencing his beer brand EIGHT Elite Light Beer.

    The 58-year-old made it clear that while he’s aware of their presence in the neighborhood, he’s not exactly knocking on their door for a cup of sugar.

    “I haven’t run into them. But they are there, from what I can gather. I think anyone with a heartbeat knows that they’re out there,” he added. “But I’m not hanging with them, that’s for sure.”

    Aikman’s comment came off as more humorous than shady, suggesting that the distance is less about personal conflict and more about lifestyle differences.

    Not Everyone Feels the Same About Meghan and Harry

    While Aikman keeps his distance, others in Montecito have shared varying opinions on the royal couple, especially when it comes to how they interact with the local community.

    Longtime Montecito resident and royal reporter Richard Mineards, speaking to the Daily Mail, said he believes Meghan hasn’t blended in with her new surroundings.

    “She pays attention to every appearance, every word, every gesture,” Mineards told the Daily Mail. “And here in Montecito, we appreciate simple people, even famous ones. Meghan doesn’t play the community game.”

    In contrast, Mineards had kinder words for Prince Harry. He described him as much more approachable and relaxed.

    “He is always charming, approachable, with that very recognizable Windsor accent. He smiles, shakes hands, willingly exchanges a few words,” Mineards said. “We’ve seen him at the beach, in an organic coffee shop, or cycling in the hills.”

    These remarks suggest that while Harry might be winning over the neighbors with his casual vibe, Meghan is still working on settling into the community culture.

    Meghan Markle and Prince Harry together
    Source: cheekylorns2/Depositphotos

    Their $14 Million Mansion and Star-Studded Circle

    Meghan and Harry moved into their lavish $14 million estate in Montecito in 2020, shortly after stepping down from royal duties. Since then, they’ve built a life for themselves and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

    While they might not be in Troy Aikman’s social circle, the couple certainly isn’t lacking in high-profile connections. They are known to be good friends with Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King, both of whom also live in Montecito. For a while, they were also close with Ellen DeGeneres, who previously lived nearby before relocating to England.

    So while Aikman isn’t joining them for brunch, it’s safe to say Meghan and Harry are far from isolated in their luxurious new life.

    Sharon Stone Once Called Them Down-To-Earth

    Back when the couple first settled into Montecito, actress Sharon Stone had nothing but positive things to say about them. In a 2020 interview with Hello!, Stone described the couple as kind and community-minded.

    “They’re a part of our community, they’ve become a giving, caring, participating part of our community,” she said.

    Her statement paints a different picture from Mineards’ take, showing that opinions on the royal duo vary even within the same neighborhood.

    A Quiet Life With Selective Company

    It seems Meghan and Harry have chosen a quieter, more controlled lifestyle in Montecito.

    While they may not be hitting up local events or hosting block parties, they have carved out a circle of trusted friends and maintained a level of privacy that suits their new life away from the royal spotlight.

    Troy Aikman, on the other hand, seems content with keeping things low-key and focusing on his business ventures. And if that means steering clear of royal drama or paparazzi-worthy moments, so be it.

    At the end of the day, both Aikman and the royal couple seem to be enjoying Montecito on their own terms. Whether that means staying private, enjoying nature, or not sharing the same taste in beverages, they’ve each found their place in this sunny slice of California paradise.

    Troy Aikman
    Source: ProShooter/Depositphotos

    TL;DR

    • Troy Aikman says he has no interest in hanging out with Meghan and Harry, joking, “I don’t think they’re drinking much light beer.”
    • He hasn’t met them but is aware they live nearby.
    • Royal reporter Richard Mineards says Meghan hasn’t blended in with locals, though Harry is seen as friendly and approachable.
    • The Sussexes moved to Montecito in 2020 and live in a $14 million home.
    • They are friends with Oprah and Gayle King and were previously close to Ellen DeGeneres.
    • Sharon Stone once praised them as kind and involved community members.
    • It seems Meghan and Harry prefer a private life, and Aikman is happy doing his own thing, too.

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