The fallout from Meghan Markle’s workplace environment continues to make waves, with claims that she is a dictator who terrifies her staff and has even reduced grown men to tears. This has led to renewed scrutiny and additional reporting on the matter. Reported when it first broke, Hollywood is distancing itself from Harry and Meghan.
Now, more details are emerging, confirming the initial reports. The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, Variety, and Entertainment Tonight are among the more respected sources within Hollywood, and negative press from these outlets can have significant repercussions.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, some of Meghan and Harry’s former staffers have allegedly coined the term "Sussex Survivors Club" to describe their experiences. The magazine’s bombshell report delves into the mass exits of employees who worked closely with the Duke and Duchess. The article follows news from last month that their Chief of Staff, Josh Kettler, left after only three months—an exit claimed to be a mutual decision, according to Meghan and Harry. We reached out for comment, but they have not responded.
A high-level source working for the couple described Meghan Markle as someone who “belittles people” and doesn’t take advice. They claimed that while Harry is charming, he is also a significant enabler. As Meghan and Harry continue to seek more prominence through their appearances and projects, the reality of their workplace dynamics is becoming clearer.
In a 2022 episode of her podcast "Archetypes," Meghan defended herself against accusations of being demanding, arguing that setting boundaries does not make one difficult. However, the nickname “Duchess Difficult” has followed Meghan for years, and new reports suggest that these concerns are not confined to the UK but are being echoed in the US as well.
Despite Meghan’s friend and facialist Sarah Chapman’s defense—describing Meghan as trustworthy and compassionate—many still view the allegations seriously. The disparity between Chapman’s positive portrayal and the negative reports raises questions. Is it a case of a woman in power being unfairly judged, or are the criticisms valid?
The reporting by The Hollywood Reporter seems thorough and credible, but as with any high-profile story, skepticism is necessary. Meghan and Harry have not commented on the criticisms, but the portrayal of Meghan as a dictatorial figure is certainly striking.
This issue, coupled with Meghan’s attempts to present herself as a peaceful diplomat and advocate, creates a complex image.
