Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have long been the subject of intense public fascination, but it turns out their neighbors at Montecito are just as intriguing. Nestled in a posh corner of California, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex share their upscale community with none other than NFL legend Troy Aikman. Known for his calm demeanor on and off the field, Aikman’s proximity to the royal couple has sparked curiosity. However, despite the potential for star-studded neighborly camaraderie, it seems Aikman is keeping a polite, well-mannered distance from the Sussexes. 

While his royal neighbors navigate the whirlwind of royal-to-regular life, Aikman seems to prefer savoring his fifties away from the buzz, or daresay, the booze?

Troy Aikman, the celebrated Dallas Cowboys quarterback turned sports commentator, has revealed to US Weekly that he will not be hanging out with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry anytime soon. Despite living just a stone’s throw away from the royal couple at Montecito, California, he seems to be keeping a distance, and not only because he likes to keep his circle tight, but also clean. He candidly shared that he has "not run into them", but also as the couple seems to be out and about, not " drinking much light beer", he carefully worded.

No matter the status quo, Aikman clearly seems to prioritize discretion over drama. And while hanging out would mean a nice glass or two of the frothy alcoholic drink, Aikman finds it healthier to be distant. This is especially after he revealed to being more mindful of "what I am eating and what I am consuming". The NFL star admitted to holding a steady love for a pail or two of good beer, while also balancing it out with rigorous work-out sessions. Troy Aikman thus maintains a royal distance, which offers a second side to the complaints the Duchess herself seems to have for her neighbors.

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After years of commanding stadiums and national broadcasts, Aikman might now value the calm and privacy at Montecito. Regardless, the jewels of his accomplishments never loosen off his crown. 

So, who exactly is Troy Aikman? Beyond being a football legend, Aikman’s career is nothing short of spectacular. Drafted first overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 1989, he led the team to three Super Bowl victories and earned six Pro Bowl selections. His accolades include being named Super Bowl XXVII MVP and induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006. Post-retirement, Aikman has become a familiar voice as a commentator on NFL broadcasts, blending sports expertise with a smooth broadcasting style, earning the portfolio of not exactly your average neighbor. 

Aikman also belongs to the folks who just want to keep things simple and beer-free. While Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue to navigate their unique path, Troy Aikman stands as the quintessential neighbor who prefers to watch the game from the sidelines rather than join the royal huddle. While we might see no royal tea parties with Aikman, there will be plenty of respect and a pint of humor to keep the neighborhood vibe just right.

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Do you think this royal distance between the two neighbors is all in good sport? Let us know in the comments below!