Meghan Markle’s 11th publicist quits in five years, says ‘time to go’

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are once again reshaping their communications team, a pattern that has increasingly drawn attention over the past five years.The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s Chief Communications Officer, Meredith Maines, has stepped away from her role after roughly 10 months, marking what is reportedly the couple’s 11th publicist departure since they stepped back from royal duties.The development was first reported by The Sun and later confirmed by Page Six.A source familiar with the situation told Page Six that Maines’ exit was not the result of conflict.“She’s unflappable, and does not complain… she really enjoyed her time there, but at a certain point it’s time to go,” the source said.The insider added that Maines’ professional background shaped how she approached the role.“Coming from the VC and tech industries, she’s used to so many things going on at all times.”While some questioned her non-traditional PR background, the source said it proved effective.“Others may have thought it was not a traditional background, but I think it worked well. The amount she was able to do in almost a year was amazing, she launched Meghan’s podcast and TV show… and looked after the Prince’s charity work.”According to the source, Maines “did what she needed to do.”“The word on the street she’s got bunch of stuff lined up for the new year. And she’s very exited.”Maines herself confirmed her exit in a statement to Page Six, expressing gratitude for her time with the Sussexes and Archewell.“After a year of inspiring work with Prince Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Archewell, I will be pursuing a new opportunity in 2026,” she said.“I have the utmost gratitude and respect for the couple and the team, and the good they are doing in the world.”A spokesperson for Harry and Meghan also confirmed the change.“Meredith Maines and Method Communications have concluded their work with Archewell,” the spokesperson told Page Six. “The Duke and Duchess are grateful for their contributions and wish them well.”According to The Sun, Maines’ departure coincides with the Sussexes cutting ties with Method Communications, the PR consultancy she was associated with. The outlet reported that the partnership lasted just seven months.The Sun further reported that a new agency “is believed” to have been selected to manage the couple’s U.S. communications moving forward.Maines will not be replaced as Chief Communications Officer, the outlet said. Instead, UK and Europe director of communications Liam Maguire is expected to step in as lead.One source told The Sun that the appointment raised concerns from the start.“There were a few eyebrows raised when Method and Meredith were retained given their heavy experience background in tech and venture capitalism, especially given the work of the couple,” the source said.