Ashley Hanson, the renowned PR chief of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has recently stepped down from her position, delivering yet another blow to the couple’s already dwindling careers.
After over a year of service, Hanson’s departure comes as a surprise to many, with reports suggesting that tensions between the Sussexes and their team may have played a role in her decision.
The Sunday Times, which has since deleted its report, shed some light on the situation, revealing that Hanson had been exploring freelance opportunities for herself.
Unfortunately, these endeavors did not align with the Sussexes’ plans, leading to her resignation.
Despite being highly regarded by the team, it appears that the couple’s clients did not always heed her advice, hinting at underlying conflicts.
Hanson was an invaluable asset to the couple, taking over from Toyah Holness, who served as the head of communications for 11 months.
With a background in film studies and extensive experience in public relations and communications, including senior roles at Universal and NBC Universal Media, Hanson brought a more relaxed approach to the Sussexes’ media interactions.
However, her departure has also brought to light some shocking revelations.
In addition to exposing Meghan’s alleged bullying behavior, Hanson disclosed that the Duchess had formed a WhatsApp group with tabloid journalists and their communications team during the Shears Invictus Games.
This move contradicted the couple’s previous announcement that they would no longer engage with the British tabloid media.
An email sent on behalf of the Sussexes to editors in April 2020 stated their intention to cease collaboration and engagement with journalists.
Nevertheless, under Hanson’s guidance, the couple adopted a more collaborative approach with certain publications.
During their attendance at the Shears Invictus Games, tabloid journalists were regularly briefed on Meghan’s activities, outfits, and even the fact that she did her own hair and makeup.
The decision to prioritize such trivial matters during an event dedicated to wounded veterans has drawn criticism.
Many argue that the focus should have been on the athletes and their achievements, rather than Meghan’s appearance.
The revelation that she had a collaboration with the tabloid further fueled speculation that she may have leaked false information and paparazzi photos to the press.
It is not surprising that the Daily Mail, often dubbed the “Daily Markle,” received exclusive coverage during that week in September.
It appears that the Sussexes saw this as an opportunity to control the narrative and garner much-needed attention, especially considering their declining popularity.
With Hollywood on strike and their Netflix project, “Heart of Invictus,” failing to make a significant impact, they were in desperate need of positive press.
The incident involving Hanson pulling Meghan off the red carpet at the Variety Power of Women event sheds light on another aspect of their tumultuous relationship.
Allegedly, Hanson was upset that Meghan was becoming too absorbed in the limelight, causing her true self to be exposed and tarnishing her reputation.
However, Meghan’s failure to heed her advisor’s advice ultimately led to this confrontation.
The pressure from event organizers and other celebrities forced Hanson to make the difficult decision to remove Meghan from the cameras.
In the end, Ashley Hanson chose to prioritize her own well-being over continuing to navigate the challenges of working with the Sussexes.
Her resignation highlights the complexities and conflicts that can arise within high-profile PR teams.
As the couple faces yet another setback, it remains to be seen how they will move forward without their trusted communications chief.