The line between the press corps and palace insiders has long been clear, but it is beginning to blur as King Charles and Queen Camilla bring in someone who knows how royal stories are reported and how fast they can take off.
The monarch isn’t the first to make the move
According to The Times, Sky News royal correspondent Rhiannon Mills is joining the palace as a media secretary. She will work under communications director Tobyn Andreae, replacing Laura Sullivan.
The role puts her at the center of the monarchy’s media strategy, managing press relationships and shaping how information is shared.
Palace sources already see her as “a great fit.” They pointed to her “intelligence, quick thinking, good humor and resilience.” Rhiannon has spent more than a decade covering the royal family. She’s traveled with them on tours across Japan, Africa, Nepal, India, Bhutan, Pakistan, the Middle East, New Zealand, and Australia.
Her Sky News biography highlights her role in major royal moments. “Her interviews have made news around the world, with Prince Harry telling her about his desire to have a family in 2015, and Prince William speaking about Queen Elizabeth’s support following the death of Princess Diana.”
It also notes, “She has played a major role in every significant royal event since 2015, including royal births, marriages, birthdays and celebrations when the Queen became Britain’s longest reigning monarch.”
Sky News executive Jonathan Levy said, “Rhiannon has made a great contribution to Sky News. Especially on the royal beat, where she has reported on an especially eventful period in the royal family’s history. We wish Rhiannon the very best in her new role with King Charles.”
While not common, it isn’t unprecedented. Tobyn previously worked at The Daily Mail, and former communications secretary Simon Lewis came from the BBC. Rhiannon also has a personal connection through her partner, photographer Andrew Parsons. He’s worked with William and Kate Middleton.
Rhiannon is expected to start before the summer.
TELL US — IS CHARLES AND CAMILLA HIRING A ROYAL REPORTER A SMART MOVE?
