Prince Harry told the High Court that the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday made his wife Meghan’s life “an absolute misery.”
The Duke of Sussex spoke emotionally as he concluded his evidence in a lawsuit against Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL), which he claims published intrusive articles about him and his relationships before meeting Meghan.
He described the court process as a “horrible experience” for his family, saying all he wanted was “an apology and some accountability.” Harry’s lawsuit is one of several high-profile claims against ANL for alleged privacy breaches over the last 20 years.
The case focuses on 14 articles, most of them related to his former relationship with Chelsy Davy. Harry said the coverage was “terrifying” and left him constantly worried that something bad might happen. He recalled a 2006 article claiming Davy opposed him joining the Army, which he said created strain and distrust in their relationship.
Harry accused the publisher of potentially trying to push him toward drugs and alcohol to increase sales. He also criticized the publication of private conversations about his family after images of his late mother, Princess Diana.”
During cross-examination by ANL’s lawyer, Antony White KC, Harry’s tone at times was sharp. When suggested that a reporter might have been part of his social circle, he responded: “Good for her.” The judge repeatedly reminded him to answer questions without arguing his case.
In his 23-page statement, Harry said he felt under “24-hour surveillance” and only later learned about ANL’s alleged unlawful practices. He described being “paranoid beyond belief” and feeling constantly monitored.
Harry also detailed how the Mail’s coverage first revealed Davy’s name, causing her to feel “hunted” and terrified. He described the publisher’s behavior toward Davy as abnormal and alarming. He recalled another article about reactions to his mother’s death, calling it “disgusting”.
ANL denies the allegations of unlawful information gathering. Other claimants in the case include Liz Hurley, Sadie Frost, Sir Elton John and David Furnish, Sir Simon Hughes.
