Archewell Productions executive Chanel Pysnik has left Harry and Meghan's organisation, becoming at least the 24th staff member to quit since the couple married in May 2018. The departure is a significant setback for the Sussexes' television operations, as Pysnik was widely regarded as one of Hollywood's top documentary makers.
Pysnik, a former CNN and Disney+ executive, joined the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in May 2021 as head of non-fiction, film and TV for Archewell Productions, less than a year after they signed their $100 million Netflix deal in September 2020. Her exit comes following Harry and Meghan's return to the UK.
Departure amid Diana documentary rumours
The news is particularly difficult for Harry amid reports he was considering making a documentary about his mother, Diana, ahead of the 30th anniversary of her death in Paris. It has been reported that Harry has been discussing ideas and reaching out to family members, friends and relatives, including Diana's brother Earl Spencer, to see who might participate.
The Sussexes have outwardly shown no ill will towards Pysnik, saying: "Chanel was one of our very first hires at Archewell Productions and spearheaded the strategic framework for our unscripted endeavours. She brought not only her expertise into the process, but also led with her heart in telling beautiful stories."
They added: "Many successful productions later, her impact and legacy at Archewell is to be celebrated. We are both championing her as she embarks on this next chapter."
In response, Pysnik said it had been an "honour" to work alongside Harry and Meghan, adding: "Together, we have produced work that has broken records, earned awards, and screened at prestigious film festivals, while reaching audiences around the world and contributing to important cultural conversations."
High staff turnover since 2018
Pysnik is at least the 24th employee to have quit working for Harry and Meghan since the couple married in May 2018, and the 16th since Megxit in 2020. Many have been publicists, with the Sussexes seeing over a dozen quit in the last several years.
Last year, Vanity Fair reported that several staff members required "long-term therapy" or took extended breaks after working for Meghan.
The couple's relationship with William and Kate has also been strained. The four of them created the Royal Foundation, but the 'Fab Four' split up their partnership in June 2019, and six months later the Sussexes were preparing to quit the UK for North America. The couples have barely spoken since, with Harry and Meghan's outspoken remarks against William and Kate cited as the reason for the rancour.
