11 Publicists in 5 Years: Harry and Meghan Face New PR Shake-up as CCO Exits

It's another departure for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. On December 26, 2025, Meredith Maines, the Chief Communications Officer (CCO) for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, announced she's stepping down after less than a year on the job. She marks the 11th publicist to leave the couple's team in just five years.

A Revolving Door of PR Talent

Maines, who joined the Sussexes in March 2025, brought over 20 years of experience from tech giants like Google and Hulu. During her short tenure, she oversaw the launch of Meghan’s Netflix project, 'With Love, Meghan.' While sources close to Maines told Page Six she was "unflappable," her exit follows a string of high-profile departures, including Director of Communications Emily Robinson and global press secretary Ashley Hansen.

The couple also confirmed that Method Communications, a prominent U.S. PR firm, has finished its work with their foundation, Archewell Philanthropies. The Sussexes haven't announced a direct replacement for Maines, choosing instead to let UK-based director Liam Maguire handle her duties for now.

Allegations and Holidays in Montecito

This rapid turnover has reignited scrutiny regarding workplace culture. Recent reports from The Hollywood Reporter detailed allegations from former staffers who claimed Meghan was "relentless" and compared her to a "dictator in high heels." Meghan has consistently denied such claims, labeling them a smear campaign.

Amid the professional shifts, Harry and Meghan spent their Christmas in Montecito with their children, Archie (6) and Lilibet (4). They were absent from the traditional Royal service at Sandringham, continuing their life away from the UK spotlight since their departure in 2020.