Prince Harry reached a significant settlement in his six-year lawsuit against News Group Newspapers (NGN), the publisher behind The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World.
The agreement, finalized on January 22, includes a “full and unequivocal apology” and substantial damages for the extensive intrusion into Harry’s private life between 1996 and 2011.
NGN admitted to unlawful activities by its journalists and private investigators, including phone hacking, surveillance, and misuse of private information. The apology also extended to the late Princess Diana, acknowledging the impact of intrusive media coverage on her life and Harry’s.
Prince Harry Case Reveals Tabloid History of Intrusion and Unlawful Practices
The lawsuit exposed a series of illegal practices, such as bugging homes, placing listening devices in cars, and deceptively obtaining medical and phone records.
Harry’s legal team described the settlement as a “monumental victory” that validates the claims of many others who were forced to settle without uncovering the truth.
The settlement came just as the trial began on January 21, following Judge Timothy Fancourt’s denial of requests to delay the proceedings.
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This resolution follows Harry’s previous legal win against Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) in 2024 for phone hacking over a 15-year period, where he received damages and legal costs amounting to £400,000 ($505,000).
Holding Tabloids Accountable for a Better Future
Prince Harry has long been vocal about holding tabloids accountable for unethical practices. In the ITV documentary Tabloids on Trial, he emphasized his belief that public figures must challenge media misconduct.
“This fight is something I’ve taken on for the greater good,” Harry stated, explaining how this cause has strained his relationship with his family, including King Charles and Prince William. “I’ve made it very clear that this is something that needs to be done, and it would be nice if we did it as a family.”
With this settlement, Harry hopes to set a precedent for greater accountability in the media industry, standing firm in his mission to protect privacy and ethical journalism.
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