The recent departure of Meredith Maines, the chief communications officer for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has stirred speculation about the state of the Sussexes’ professional relationships. Maines left her role after just 10 months, prompting royal commentator Jennie Bond to question the couple’s understated response.
A spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said, “Meredith Maines and Method Communications have concluded their work with Archewell. The Duke and Duchess are grateful for their contributions and wish them well.” However, Bond described this statement as “decidedly cool,” suggesting it hints at a “troubled” working relationship.
Maines herself expressed gratitude in her statement: “After a year of inspiring work with Prince Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Archewell, I will be pursuing a new opportunity in 2026. I have the utmost gratitude and respect for the couple and the team, and the good work they are doing in the world.”
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Adding to the upheaval, James Holt, former executive director of the Archewell Foundation and previously the Sussexes’ head of communications, has also resigned. Harry and Meghan reportedly do not plan to replace Maines, with Liam Maguire, director of UK and Europe communications, expected to take on the responsibilities.
Maines is reportedly the 11th publicist to leave since the couple stepped back from royal duties and relocated to California in 2020. Jennie Bond questioned the necessity of so many staff members, asking, “Why can’t they run their lives and their projects with just one or two helpers?”
With further departures and uncertain recruitment plans, the next phase for the Sussexes remains unclear. Bond expressed hope that Harry and Meghan will find happiness in their chosen life with their children under the Californian sun.