Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced a setback with the departure of their 11th publicist in just five years following the exit of their chief communications officer.
Meredith Maines, who had been working for the couple for less than a year, is set to pursue a new opportunity in 2026 after a period of productive collaboration with Harry and Meghan. Additionally, the couple has ended their partnership with US-based PR agency Method Communications, which was enlisted in June to support their business and charitable initiatives.
Maines, who joined as the chief communications officer for the Sussexes in March 2025, supervised all external communications for Harry and Meghan, including Meghan’s As Ever lifestyle brand, Archewell Productions media company, and Archewell Philanthropies charity. However, her departure has sparked conflicting narratives, with some attributing it to mishandling a controversy over deleted photos of the couple following a party hosted by the Kardashians.
While some sources suggest Maines left amid turmoil, others claim her exit was on positive terms after facilitating a meeting between Harry and his father in September. Despite the positive developments, the Sussexes faced scrutiny after photos from the Kardashian party, where Harry and Meghan were pictured, were mysteriously removed from Instagram.
Allegations arose that the couple had requested the photos be taken down, but the Kardashian camp refuted these claims, stating there was no such agreement. Reports indicate a mixed reception to Maines’ departure, with one insider describing her tenure as disastrous, while another highlighted her accomplishments in launching projects and fostering critical meetings.
A spokesperson for Harry and Meghan confirmed Maines’ departure and expressed gratitude for her contributions, while Maines herself acknowledged her rewarding experience with the couple and their philanthropic endeavors.