In a move that has caught both royal watchers and Hollywood insiders by surprise, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have quietly established what many are now calling their own “royal court” in Montecito, California. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who stepped back from official royal duties in 2020, appear to be creating a new kind of court—one that blends traditional aristocratic structure with modern celebrity influence.

A Court Reimagined

Sources close to the couple have revealed that Harry and Meghan have appointed a close circle of trusted advisors, communications experts, business strategists, and philanthropic consultants who now form what insiders are dubbing the “Montecito Court.” The structure is inspired by elements of the British royal household—press secretaries, chiefs of staff, and private secretaries—but adapted for life in America’s celebrity and media capital.

“They’re redefining what it means to be royal in the 21st century,” said a PR expert familiar with the couple’s media strategy. “This is not about tiaras and palace intrigue—it’s about influence, impact, and narrative control.”

At the center of this inner circle is James Holt, a longtime communications director who has served the couple since their early days with the Royal Foundation. Now heading Archewell’s public relations wing, Holt is considered one of the most trusted voices behind the Sussex brand.

High-Profile Appointments

Also joining the team is Toya Holness, their former global press secretary who has reportedly returned in an advisory role. Her expertise in navigating both British and American media landscapes is said to be vital to the couple’s evolving strategy.

Behind the scenes, Ben Browning, who helped spearhead projects at Archewell Productions, continues to shape the couple’s Hollywood ventures, including documentaries and potential film projects in collaboration with Netflix and other platforms.

In a philanthropic capacity, Mandana Dayani, who briefly served as President of Archewell, helped the couple expand their nonprofit initiatives and build strategic alliances with other humanitarian organizations. Though no longer in the role, her groundwork remains influential.

Additionally, Marcus Anderson, a longtime friend of Meghan and a key player in their social circle, has been spotted at several events and is rumored to be advising on branding and exclusive partnerships.

The Montecito HQ

Their luxurious Montecito estate now serves as the de facto headquarters of the Sussex operation. Located in the scenic hills of Santa Barbara County, the property is both a family home and a hub for their growing empire.

Inside sources say the estate includes home offices, video conferencing studios, and private meeting rooms where key strategy sessions are held. It’s a far cry from Buckingham Palace, but one that reflects the couple’s commitment to independence and reinvention.

“They may have left the royal family, but they haven’t left behind the structure or the mission,” said a royal historian. “What they’re doing now is rebuilding that system on their own terms.”

Critics and Supporters

As expected, reactions to the “Montecito Court” have been mixed. Critics argue that the move contradicts their earlier claims of wanting a quieter, more private life. “This feels like royal cosplay,” one UK tabloid commentator wrote. “You can take the couple out of the palace, but not the palace out of the couple.”

However, supporters see it differently. “They’re creating a new model of leadership that isn’t bound by outdated traditions,” one American fan tweeted. “It’s smart, progressive, and much-needed.”

Indeed, Harry and Meghan continue to walk the tightrope between royal legacy and modern celebrity. Their Netflix docuseries, Spotify podcast, bestselling memoir, and high-profile interviews have established them as influential voices in both entertainment and activism.

What’s Next?

With the Montecito Court now seemingly in full swing, speculation is swirling about the couple’s next moves. Reports suggest more documentaries are in the works, along with a potential lifestyle brand, children’s media, and further philanthropic ventures through Archewell Foundation.

One insider hinted, “They’re just getting started. What they’re building isn’t just a brand—it’s a lasting legacy.”

Whether you see them as reinventing royalty or simply Hollywood’s latest power couple, one thing is certain: Harry and Meghan are making sure that wherever they go, the crown—symbolic or otherwise—follows closely behind.