‘This is about witnesses speaking their truth’: Prince Harry gets his day in court against Murdoch’s newspapers
Guardian2 days
UK: Prince Harry's Murdoch Media Group Lawsuit Delayed
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Above: Members of the media gather outside the Royal Courts of Justice on Jan. 21, 2025 in London, England as Prince Harry accuses News Group Newspapers (NGN) of unlawful information gathering. Image copyright: Leon Neal/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Prince Harry's scheduled trial against Rupert Murdoch's News Group Newspapers (NGN) has been delayed after both teams of lawyers appealed the High Court's rejection of a third last minute adjournment amid ongoing settlement discussions.
The trial is currently scheduled to examine both specific claims by Prince Harry as well as alleged unlawful information gathering at NGN's newspapers, including phone hacking and private investigator surveillance, between 1996-2011 by journalists at The Sun and News of the World.
The Spin
Left narrative
Prince Harry's legal battle against NGN isn’t about money; it's about accountability. Unlike celebrities who settled, Harry is determined to expose the unlawful activities that plagued his private life for years. Settling would allow those responsible to escape true justice. His stand is vital, not just for himself but for others harmed by media intrusion. Taking this case to court is a win for transparency, ensuring that the truth finally comes to light.
Right narrative
Prince Harry’s persistent legal battles seem more like a bid to stay in the spotlight than a genuine fight for justice. By appearing in court and positioning himself as the face of media reform, he ensures the cameras remain on him. However, if he ultimately settles, it will shatter his credibility, reinforcing the idea that he's only ever been chasing money and attention. A settlement without accountability would confirm that his actions were more about personal gain than true reform.
Cynical narrative
In the battle between Prince Harry and the press, one thing is certain: the real winners are the lawyers. With both sides entrenched, this trial promises to rack up massive legal fees, regardless of the outcome. Settlements may be avoided, but hefty costs for the parties involved are inevitable. As Harry seeks revenge and the press defends itself, the lawyers stand to profit most from the endless cycle of litigation.
