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Meghan Markle’s PR Chief Quits After Revelations of Tabloid Leaks
Ashley Hanson, the highly regarded PR chief for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has resigned from her position, delivering a fresh blow to the couple's already declining careers.
Hanson, who famously pushed Meghan off the red carpet at the Variety Power of Women event a few months ago, has reportedly been exploring freelance opportunities.
According to sources, tensions between the Sussexes and their clients may have played a role in her departure.
Hanson was a valuable asset to the couple, having replaced Toyah Holness as head of communications for the Sussexes.
With over a decade of experience in public relations and communications, including senior roles at Universal and NBC Universal Media, Hanson brought a more relaxed approach to media interactions.
However, her departure has shed light on some controversial practices within Meghan's team.
In addition to exposing Meghan's alleged bullying behavior, Hanson revealed that the Duchess had created a WhatsApp group with tabloid journalists and her communications team during the Shears Invictus Games.
This move contradicted the couple's previous announcement that they would no longer engage with British tabloid media.
An email sent on behalf of the Sussexes in April 2020 stated that there would be no collaboration or engagement with journalists.
However, under Hanson's leadership, the couple adopted a more collaborative approach with select publications.
During the Shears Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, tabloid journalists were regularly briefed on Meghan's activities, outfits, and even her hair and makeup choices.
This level of attention to her appearance raised eyebrows, as the event was meant to honor wounded veterans, not serve as a glamorous red carpet affair.
Critics argue that Meghan's focus on her own image detracted from the event's true purpose.
The revelation that Meghan used the media WhatsApp group to leak information and paparazzi photos has raised questions about the integrity of her collaboration with tabloids.
Some speculate that this strategic move was an attempt to control the narrative and gain positive coverage during a time when the couple's popularity was waning.
With Hollywood on strike and their Netflix project, “Heart of Invictus,” failing to make a significant impact, Meghan may have felt the need for increased media attention.
Hanson's decision to pull Meghan off the red carpet at the Variety Power of Women event was reportedly driven by concerns about the Duchess losing sight of her identity in front of the cameras.
However, Meghan's reluctance to follow her advisor's advice strained their working relationship.
Hanson found herself caught between the demands of the event organizers and the expectations of genuine celebrities, leading to her decision to prioritize her own professional integrity.
As Ashley Hanson steps away from her role as the Sussexes' PR chief, the couple faces yet another setback in their efforts to rebuild their careers.
The departure of a highly respected team member and the revelations of leaked information raise questions about the couple's transparency and strategic decision-making.
Only time will tell how these developments will impact Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's future endeavors.