A recently released documentary has offered a look into Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s so-called “lavish lifestyle” in their multi-million dollar Montecito, California residence. During the film, experts highlight one cost in particular that surpasses all others. In 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex sent shockwaves across the world when Harry declared that he, and the former Suits actress, would be stepping back from their duties as working senior royals.
Following their departure, the pair gave a bombshell interview to Oprah Winfrey, outlining several alleged reasons for leaving the Royal household to start their new lives in the US.
Later that year, it was confirmed that the couple would be moving into a breathtaking $14.65 million (£10.6 million) family home. However, the colossal price of the property didn’t stop there, with a reported mortgage of $9.5 million (£6.9 million) taken out, and repayments believed to be between $50,000-100,000 (£36,900- £73,700) a month.
In the documentary aired on Channel 5, titled Harry and Meghan: Where Did The Money Go, experts have offered their insights on how they believe the couple’s finances have skyrocketed in recent times.
While the couple are said to have numerous costly financial commitments, one of the largest outgoings is reportedly on their 7.4 acre Montecito home. The property features a number of luxurious details amongst its nine bedrooms and the extensive gardens that surround them.
Royal expert Emily Andrews said of Prince Harry and Meghan’s life in America: “They’re living their lovely lovely lavish lifestyle in their Montecito mansion with the nine bathrooms and the little house in the gardens, where Doria (Ragland, Meghan’s mom) sleeps or the garden where Meghan cuts her roses, and the private nursery where their children go to school.”
The documentary claimed that owning such a grand estate brings a hefty financial burden, with the “biggest cost” going on their security expenditure.
Researchers on the documentary have disclosed that the Sussexes reportedly fork out an eye-watering $3million (around £2.2m) annually on personal security measures.
The Mirror’s Royal editor, Russell Myers, gave his opinion on the issue, expressing disbelief at the sums involved. “I don’t think they thought it through about their security and what that would mean for not only leaving their roles but moving to somewhere like America,” he shared.
“Harry and Meghan thought that they might have to put their hand in their pocket for some sort of security detail, but when it was stripped away from them, they were left with a huge, huge bill.”
The documentary also highlighted that since stepping back from royal duties, Harry and Meghan no longer benefit from the security funded by British taxpayers for members of the Royal Family.
Earlier this year, the Duke of Sussex was dealt a blow in court over his downgraded personal security level.
Reflecting on the outcome with the BBC, he expressed: “I’m devastated – not so much as devastated with the loss that I am about the people behind the decision, feeling as though this is okay. Is it a win for them?”.
He also mentioned that he has decided against further legal challenges, stating the judgement “proven that there was no way to win this through the courts”.
In the aftermath of the ruling, he added that he “can’t see a world in which I would bring my wife and children back to the UK at this point”.
