Princess of Wales Kate Middleton is reportedly unsettled by the prospect Meghan Markle is attempting to recruit Natasha Archer, the longtime aide who recently stepped down from the Princess of Wales’ inner circle, to work on her rebranded lifestyle empire.
The Princess of Wales has relied on Archer for 15 years. Known by the royal family as “Tash,” Archer joined the royal household in 2010 and rose to become senior private executive assistant to Middleton and Prince William, even styling the Princess on key tours and events.
She recently announced her departure from Kensington Palace to start a private consultancy, sparking speculation over her next move.
A palace source claimed, “For Kate this isn’t just about work – it’s personal. Natasha stood by her through pregnancies, big public moments, and even her recent illness. The thought of Meghan moving in on someone so central to her life feels like the deepest betrayal. She’s genuinely afraid Natasha could be tempted away and used against her, and could spill her secrets to Meghan.”
In 2019, Archer was made a Member of the Royal Victorian Order for services to the family, and her influence in shaping Middleton’s image was widely acknowledged. Insiders credit her with creating the “Kate effect” a.k.a. the fashion phenomenon that saw outfits worn by the Princess sell out within hours.
A Hollywood source said, “Meghan is laser-focused on her brand. She recognizes Natasha’s value and is prepared to spend big to secure her. The offer’s already been floated – come to Montecito, work closely with her, and earn twice the usual fee. Meghan views it as a chance to elevate As Ever while grabbing headlines in the process.”
The timing is sensitive. Markle’s launch of fruit spreads, teas, and baking mixes earlier this year sold out quickly but faced criticism over quality and pricing. Her recently released Rose wine was also divisive despite selling through in a day.
Meanwhile, her first Netflix season drew lower viewing figures compared to Harry & Meghan, the couple’s 2022 docuseries.
A third source said, “Kate may appear composed in public, but privately she’s deeply anxious. The idea of Meghan winning over Natasha feels like history repeating itself, with her most personal moments at risk of being exposed. The possibility that her once-loyal confidante could now be working out of Montecito is something that genuinely unsettles her.”
The Express has reached out to Middelton’s reps for comment.