In the final days of 2025, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle faced a significant setback when two key members of their team decided to depart from the Sussex camp. Chief communications officer Meredith Maines and James Holt, who headed their organization Archewell, both tendered their resignations within a short timeframe, leaving Harry and Meghan without a public relations team as they entered 2026.
Holt had been overseeing the couple’s PR activities from 2019 to 2021 before shifting focus to work closely with the Sussexes on their charitable endeavors after they stepped back from royal duties in 2020. On the other hand, Maines left her position after just 10 months working with the couple, making her the eleventh publicist to depart from the Sussexes’ team in the past five years.
As the New Year commences and the Sussexes’ projects gain momentum, Meghan Markle has re-engaged with the celebrity public relations firm she previously worked with during her acting career. Reports indicate that Meghan has rehired Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis (SSML) to promote her As Ever brand and other ventures.
A reliable source mentioned that SSML has collaborated with the Duke and Duchess since 2017, assisting them with various projects, including As Ever and targeted efforts in the United States. The New York-based firm, specializing in crisis communications for celebrities, has a longstanding association with Meghan, having represented her during her acting days on the TV show Suits.
Meghan’s publicist Keleigh Thomas Morgan, now a partner at SSML, played a crucial role in translating the Duchess’s ideas into reality when she and Harry launched Archewell. The firm’s prestigious client roster includes notable names like Leonardo DiCaprio, Natalie Portman, Bette Midler, Barbra Streisand, Jennifer Lopez, and the Jackson family.
In a similar vein, other members of the Royal Family are also making strategic hires for crisis management. Prince William has enlisted the services of a crisis management expert, Liza Ravenscroft, to handle public relations matters for him and Kate. Ravenscroft, known for assisting high-profile individuals during challenging times, aims to swiftly address issues with minimal impact on her clients.
It’s noteworthy that Ravenscroft comes recommended by Julian Payne, a former communications secretary to Charles and Queen Camilla, who currently serves as the CEO of Edelman. This move is seen as a step towards closer alignment between Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace as preparations are made for William’s future role.
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