Sussex Insider Under Pressure as Archewell Turmoil Grows During Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Transition
Tension is quietly building behind the scenes at Archewell as a key Sussex insider faces mounting pressure during a critical period for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Fresh reports suggest the timing of recent changes has sparked unease within the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s inner circle.
James Holt, the long serving executive director of the Sussexes charitable foundation Archewell, is preparing to move back to the United Kingdom with his family. While the decision is understood to be personal, sources claim the timing could not be worse given the current state of transition surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
According to an insider quoted by the Mail, Holt is feeling increasingly frustrated that his relocation coincides with what is described as a significant transitional phase for the Sussexes. The source added that Holt plans to remain in his role for several more months in an effort to keep operations steady during the shift.
The insider claimed Holt is deeply protective of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and fears his departure may add to their challenges. There is reportedly concern that any disruption at Archewell could generate negative attention or internal strain.
Holt’s move marks the latest development in a long line of changes within the Sussex organisation. Since stepping back from royal duties and relocating to California in 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have experienced repeated staff departures across multiple departments.
The communications team in particular has faced ongoing instability. Sources describe it as a revolving door of talent that has struggled to maintain continuity amid shifting priorities and public scrutiny.
Just last week Meredith Maines, Archewell’s chief communications officer, became the eleventh publicist to exit the Sussex operation in the past five years. Her departure reignited questions about long term strategy and internal cohesion.
Other notable exits have followed a similar pattern in recent months. Charlie Gipson, who managed European communications, left his position in July, while US based press secretary Kyle Boulia stepped down in June alongside four additional staff members.
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Emily Robinson, a former Netflix communications director who had joined the Sussex team, departed in October. Her exit followed earlier changes including Toya Holness, who left her role as head of communications in May 2022.
Ashley Hansen, who served as global press secretary from May 2022 until October 2024, also moved on after more than two years with the Sussexes. Each departure has added to the perception of instability surrounding Archewell.
Amid this backdrop James Holt has remained one of the most consistent figures within the organisation. He first began working with Prince Harry eight years ago at the Royal Foundation in 2017 and has since been viewed as a stabilising force.
Insiders say Holt’s institutional knowledge and personal loyalty to the Sussexes have helped guide Archewell through turbulent periods. His presence has often been credited with keeping projects on track despite external pressures.
The concern now is how Archewell will function once Holt completes his transition back to the UK. While he intends to oversee a smooth handover, sources suggest the loss of such a trusted figure could be deeply felt.
For Prince Harry and Meghan Markle the timing adds another layer of complexity as they continue redefining their public roles and philanthropic focus. Any further internal disruption could complicate their efforts to rebuild momentum.
Royal watchers note that the Sussexes have faced persistent questions about leadership structure and long term vision. Holt’s move may intensify scrutiny at a moment when stability is crucial.
As Archewell navigates this latest shift, all eyes remain on how Prince Harry and Meghan Markle respond behind the scenes. Whether the foundation emerges stronger or faces further upheaval may depend on how effectively this transition is managed.
