Sussex Staff Exodus Signals Rapid Unraveling for Prince Harry and Meghan Amid Loss of 12th Top Aide

Published: Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 2:08 am

Sussex Staff Departures Raise Concerns About Brand Stability

Recent departures of key staff members are raising questions about the stability of Prince Harry and Meghan's brand in the United States. The couple has experienced a significant loss of personnel, with the departure of James Holt, a vital figure who supported them during their transition away from royal duties and other major events. Holt is returning to the UK to focus on his family.

Meredith Maines, the couple's communications chief, has also stepped down. Her exit follows controversy surrounding deleted Instagram photos. These departures add to a trend, with a total of twelve advisors having left the couple's team in recent years. Some former staff members have even removed their association with the Sussexes from their resumes.

PR expert Mark Borkowski suggests these staff losses are compounding an already challenging year for the couple's celebrity-driven brand. He notes that reputations can deteriorate rapidly, particularly for brands fueled by a moral narrative. Borkowski believes the couple may be operating in survival mode, facing numerous scandals and strategic missteps.

Holt, who has been running the Sussexes' Archewell charity since 2021, previously served as their PR chief. He was paid $245,000 in salary by Archewell in 2024. Archewell's expenses increased significantly, while donations were higher than grants made. Holt will remain a senior philanthropic advisor to the couple and Archewell Philanthropies, supporting their humanitarian trips overseas in 2026.

BNN's Perspective:

The ongoing staff departures raise legitimate concerns about the Sussexes' ability to maintain a consistent and positive public image. While the couple's philanthropic efforts are commendable, the frequent turnover of key personnel suggests internal challenges that could impact their long-term brand stability. It will be interesting to see how the couple navigates these challenges and adapts their strategy moving forward.

Keywords: Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Staff Departures, Archewell, James Holt, Meredith Maines, PR, Brand, Crisis, Philanthropy, Royal Family, Celebrity, Public Image

Full Story