Full Breakdown
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Reunite with Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis Amid Staffing Changes
1/19/2026, 11:21:10 AM
Return to Familiar Territory
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have reestablished their partnership with the public relations firm Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis (SSML), known for representing high-profile clients such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Jimmy Fallon. This reunion comes after a series of staffing changes within their communications team, including the resignation of their eleventh publicist, Meredith Maines, in December 2025. The couple has maintained a long-standing relationship with SSML, which previously managed Markle's public image during her acting career on "Suits" and has collaborated with the couple on various projects since 2017.
Staffing Challenges and Departures
The Sussexes have faced significant challenges in retaining public relations staff since their departure from royal duties in 2020. Maines' resignation marked the latest in a series of high-profile exits, including James Holt, the chief of Archewell Philanthropies, and several other senior staff members. Reports indicate that the couple's internal communications team, led by Liam Maguire, will work alongside SSML to manage their public relations efforts, particularly in the United States.
The Role of Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis
SSML is recognized for its expertise in crisis communications, which may be particularly relevant given the couple's recent public relations difficulties. The firm has a history of supporting Markle and Harry, including during their transition from royal duties to establishing financial independence through their nonprofit, Archewell. Keleigh Thomas Morgan, a co-president at SSML, has been closely involved with the couple, even attending their royal wedding in 2018.
Criticism and Public Perception
Despite the reunion with SSML, the couple's reputation has faced scrutiny, particularly following their appearance at Kris Jenner's extravagant 70th birthday party, which drew criticism for its ostentatiousness. Sources suggest that the Sussexes are cautious about their public image and are attempting to reconcile with the royal family, which may have influenced their decision to return to a familiar PR firm. The couple's efforts to manage their public perception come amid ongoing challenges related to staff loyalty and public scrutiny.
Official Statements and Responses
In response to Maines' departure, a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex expressed gratitude for her contributions, stating, "The Duke and Duchess are grateful for their contributions and wish them well." Maines herself noted, "After a year of inspiring work with Prince Harry and Meghan, I will be pursuing a new opportunity in 2026."
What's Next for the Sussexes?
As Meghan and Harry navigate their public relations strategy with SSML, the effectiveness of this partnership in enhancing their brand and public image remains to be seen. The couple's ongoing efforts to stabilize their communications team and manage their public perception will likely be closely monitored as they continue to engage with their audience through various initiatives.
