A senior figure described as Prince Harry and Meghan's 'rock' through their departure from royal life and beyond has stepped down from his role running their charitable foundation.
Key Sussex Aide Departs After Years of Service
James Holt, who has been the executive director of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's Archewell charity since 2021, has decided to leave the organisation. His departure marks the end of a nearly decade-long association with the couple, having first worked with Prince Harry back in 2017 on a mental health project for soldiers.
Holt served as the couple's PR chief from 2019 to 2021, a period encompassing their dramatic exit as working royals and relocation to the United States. He followed them to California and appeared in their Netflix documentary, Harry & Meghan, where he controversially suggested the Brexit debate had fuelled racist views affecting Meghan.
Family Move and Charity Governance Prompt Exit
Sources indicate that Holt's decision is driven by a desire to return to London with his husband and young child after five years in Los Angeles. It is understood that continuing to lead a US-based charity from the UK would present a 'governance issue'.
His exit comes at a challenging time for Archewell. The charity recently let go three staff members, including its director of programs and operations. Its most recent financial filings reveal that total expenses rose to $5.1 million in 2024, up from $3.3 million the previous year. While donations stood at $2.1 million, the foundation made grants of only $1.25 million. Holt's salary for the year was listed as $245,000.
Statements of Mutual Respect and Future Plans
In a statement, Holt called working with the couple "one of the great privileges" of his career and said he found a "kindred spirit" in Meghan. He praised their joint work, particularly on supporting families affected by online harm.
A spokesperson for the Sussexes confirmed Holt will transition to a new role as a 'senior philanthropic advisor'. He is expected to support the couple's humanitarian trips overseas in 2026 and assist Prince Harry with engagements over the next year. A source close to Holt said he was "protective" of the couple and anxious his departure would "cause them grief".
The couple's statement praised Holt's "stellar support" and "extraordinary" talent, confirming he will continue to guide their philanthropic work as he relocates his family.
