In a surprising turn of events, Josh Kettler has stepped down from his role as chief of staff to Prince Harry, just three months after taking the position.
This abrupt resignation has reignited discussions about the alleged toxic atmosphere surrounding Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex.
Kettler’s exit adds him to an ever-growing list of former employees who have been dubbed the “Sussex Survivors Club,” a term that reflects the numerous individuals who have left the Sussex team, often citing Meghan’s demanding management style and high expectations as key reasons for their departures.
Kettler was specifically brought on to support Prince Harry, but it seems that the role wasn’t a good fit for him.
Reports suggest that certain aspects of the job left him feeling uneasy, leading to a mutual decision to part ways.
This latest development is merely a symptom of deeper staffing issues that have plagued the couple since they began their high-profile journey together.
Before Kettler’s resignation, several notable figures had already bid farewell to the Sussexes.
Among them were Toyah Holness, their global press secretary, and Christine Vile-Shermer, who previously served as the head of communications after her stint at Pinterest.
These exits add to the growing narrative surrounding the couple’s challenges in retaining staff.
The list of those who have left includes Samantha Cohen, Markle’s former private secretary, and Kelly Thomas Morgan, a partner at Sunshine Sachs who represented Meghan long before she entered the royal fold.
A common thread among these departures points to Meghan’s alleged tendency to belittle her staff and dismiss their advice, earning her the nickname “Duchess Difficult.”
One insider has taken it a step further, describing Meghan as a “dictator in high heels,” someone whose fiery temperament has reportedly brought grown men to tears.
Such claims are not new; back in 2018, Jason Nath, the couple’s then-communications secretary, filed a complaint regarding Meghan’s bullying behavior towards two personal assistants.
Although Buckingham Palace’s investigation findings were never disclosed, the mere existence of this complaint has only bolstered the perception of Meghan as a demanding figure.
In stark contrast, Prince Harry has generally been viewed as more compassionate and understanding.
A contractor who worked at the couple’s wedding shared how the Duke went out of his way to help set up a bar, showcasing a side of him that many perceive as warm and approachable.
This disparity between the public images of the two has only heightened concerns about Meghan’s management style and its effects on their staff.
Kettler’s resignation is particularly striking given that he was meant to be an ally to Prince Harry, who is often seen as the more empathetic partner in their relationship.
The Sussex spokesperson has chosen to remain silent on this matter, but the ongoing trend of employee exits continues to fuel speculation about the work environment within their team.
As the ranks of the Sussex Survivors Club swell, one can’t help but wonder: can Meghan ever shake off the reputation she has garnered?
Or will the continuous stream of departures cast a long shadow over her and Harry’s public image?
The questions linger as the couple navigates the complexities of their lives in the spotlight, leaving us all curious about what comes next.