Amidst mounting controversy and strained relationships, Ashley Hansen, the global press secretary for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has decided to part ways with the couple.
Hansen, who played a crucial role in navigating the fallout from their documentaries and biographies, as well as advising them during Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, has become the fifth senior member of staff to leave the Sussexes in the past year.
Since joining the Archwell Foundation in May 2022, Hansen has been an integral part of the couple’s media team, overseeing their public relations strategy during significant moments in their post-royal life.
She played a key role in the release of Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” in January, as well as their explosive Netflix series last December.
Additionally, she accompanied and provided guidance to the couple during their visit to the UK for Harry’s grandmother’s funeral last September.
Hansen, an American of Iranian heritage, will not be transitioning to another role within Archwell.
According to a source close to her, she has been exploring opportunities for freelance work.
The decision to part ways with Harry and Meghan appears to stem from a lack of receptiveness to her advice.
Despite being highly regarded by the team, the couple often disregarded her counsel, leading to a strained working relationship.
It seems that Hansen’s departure has shed light on the challenges faced by those working closely with the Sussexes.
Hollywood insiders are reportedly hesitant to collaborate with individuals who bring little value to the table.
Moreover, the royal family’s continued detachment from the couple has limited the potential for transactional benefits.
With no significant projects or prospects on the horizon, Archwell Productions is struggling to attract top talent and secure meaningful partnerships.
The abrupt nature of Hansen’s departure raises questions about her motivations.
Did she feel unfairly blamed for the tumultuous year the couple has endured?
Perhaps the media strategy implemented by Harry and Meghan became too overwhelming for her to bear.
Whatever the case may be, the timing of her departure, just before Christmas, suggests that she was unwilling to endure another year of working with the couple.
While it appears that Hansen’s departure has been met with some criticism and blame, she maintains that the issue lies primarily with the couple and their refusal to listen to advice.
Former members of staff have echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the difficulty of working with the Sussexes.
Despite this, the rest of the team seems to have a positive working relationship, indicating that the top two individuals are the root cause of the problem.
The departure of numerous staff members raises concerns about the couple’s ability to retain talent.
Former employees were highly educated and experienced in their respective fields, yet Harry and Meghan seemed convinced that they knew better.
This pattern raises doubts regarding the couple’s suitability as employers and their ability to attract competent individuals in the future.
As Ashley Hansen embarks on her search for new opportunities, the fallout from her departure serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those working closely with the high-profile couple.
The strained relationships and lack of receptiveness to advice have created a difficult working environment, leaving many to question the future prospects of Archwell Productions.
Only time will tell if the Sussexes can overcome these obstacles and rebuild their team with individuals who are willing to collaborate and succeed together.