Meghan Markle has faced a challenging week in the US media, with a former staff member anonymously criticising her treatment of employees, labelling her “Duchess Difficult” and alleging that she left some in tears.
However, following these claims of a toxic work environment in the Hollywood Reporter, numerous former employees of the Duke and Duchess have come forward to publicly defend Harry and Meghan.
Despite reports of dramatic staff departures, many have described the royal couple as kind and caring towards their employees, according to reports made in the Mirror.
Josh Kettler, Prince Harry’s former chief of staff, who sparked speculation with his sudden exit before the couple’s “quasi-royal” tour of Colombia, has broken his silence to counter the anonymous “Duchess Difficult” accusation.
Speaking to US Weekly, Kettler defended his former employers, describing them as “dedicated and hardworking.” He recalled being “warmly welcomed” by Harry and Meghan when he joined their team.
His sentiments were echoed by Ben Browning, former head of content at Archewell Productions, the company behind the couple’s Netflix documentary. The Mail has reported that Browning, who departed before his contract concluded, described the company atmosphere as “positive and supportive”.
Ashley Hansen, their current ‘Global Press Secretary’, joined in praising the Sussexes. This comes as allies of the couple strive to counter allegations that Meghan is difficult to work for, including claims she’s a “dictator in high heels”.
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Hansen effusively praised the Duke and Duchess for their special attention towards her during her surgery, stating they showed “the kind of concern and care a parent would express if it were their own child.” She also mentioned receiving flowers and gifts from them to aid her recovery, according to press statements.
In a concerted effort by the US media to defend the couple, it was also revealed that Harry and Meghan generously donate their Royal children’s old clothing to their staff, along with “care packages”.
The current press relations employee even shared that “Meghan would personally reach out to my husband daily to make sure that we both were OK and had support. It meant so much to him and even more to me. You don’t realise how much that kind of kindness and thought means until you need it.”
In an attempt to shift the narrative following weeks of speculation about high-profile departures, anonymous sources claimed that after acquiring a dog, they received luxury dog treats and a collar as gifts. Others reportedly received “unused car seats and baby items they no longer need”.
Concerns have been raised about the contents of Harry and Meghan’s pantry after an employee shared that the Duke and Duchess often gift food and flowers to staff visiting their California home. The employee didn’t hold back on the praise, saying they were the “best bosses”, noting: “Whenever staff goes to their house, they leave with a basket with fresh flowers, fresh fruit, fresh eggs.”
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