Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Issue Statement as Archewell Philanthropies Struggles with Just One Employee

Published 12/30/2025, 11:15 AM EST

The inner circle of the Sussexes is undergoing a major shift as a cornerstone of their charitable empire prepares for a cross-continental move. This departure marks the end of a decade-long alliance that has defined the public image of the royal couple.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are facing a significant structural change within their California-based organization following the resignation of a key leader. His exit coincides with a transition in the charity's branding and operations, leaving the workforce notably leaner than in previous years.

The departure of a long-term ally often signals a turning point for any major organization.

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry farewell to the employee

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry issued an appreciative public tribute to their departing director, James Holt, to honor his extensive service to their family. The couple highlighted his loyalty over the last ten years and confirmed his new focus on personal family matters, as mentioned by Mirror.

"James has been a stellar support for us for nearly ten years”, Sussexes’ statement noted as reported by Mirror.

The Duke and Duchess also confirmed that despite his relocation, he will remain involved in specific projects from a distance. They shared their pride that he will continue to guide various humanitarian trips for them overseas through the newly named Archewell Philanthropies.

“We are proud that he will continue to guide various humanitarian trips for us overseas through Archewell Philanthropies,” the Sussexes said to The Mirror.

Page Six reported earlier this month that Archewell was left with just two employees, Executive Director James Holt, and Vice-President of Philanthropy Shauna Nep. Now with Holt leaving, the foundation is left with only one employee, it seems.

James Holt is currently organizing a move to the United Kingdom to raise his young family in his home country. This relocation effectively ends his daily involvement in the California-based operations that have occupied his career for years.

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The departure of such a loyal lieutenant coincides with a dramatic restructuring of the Sussexes' global charitable footprint.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s foundation facing massive workforce reductions

As per reports from Page Six indicate that Archewell Philanthropies has slashed its workforce by an estimated 80 to 85 percent over the past twelve months. Following the exit of James Holt, sources claim the charity is down to a skeletal crew, with some insiders describing the office as essentially shuttered.

While Shauna Nep remains associated with the brand, she has reportedly not served as a full-time employee for some time. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry has allegedly engaged in cost-cutting discussions and even weighed the possibility of selling the foundation entirely. This internal turmoil follows a string of departures, including senior staffers Genevieve Roth, Christine Schirmer, and publicist Meredith Maines.

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The production side of their empire also faces scrutiny as they await news on future streaming projects. While executives like Chanel Pysnik remain on board for unscripted content, the future of the remaining staff hinges on Netflix renewals. If upcoming shows are not picked up for additional seasons, the couple may face further pressure to dismantle their remaining professional infrastructure.

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What are your views on the Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's statement after one more employees exit? Let us know in the comments below.

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Soma Mitra

726 articles

Soma is a journalist at Netflix Junkie. With a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication, she brings production experience from documentary films like Chandua: Stories on Fabric. Covering the true crime and docu-drama beat, she turns psychological thrillers into sharp, audience-aware storytelling.

Edited By: Hriddhi Maitra

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