Prince Harry has returned to London’s High Court as his legal battle against Associated Newspapers continues. The Duke of Sussex, 41, is one of several high-profile claimants accusing the publisher of the Daily Mail of unlawful information gathering.
Second Day in Court
On Tuesday, January 20, Harry appeared in court for the second day in a row. He traveled from California to attend the start of what is expected to be a nine-week trial. Other claimants include Elton John, Elizabeth Hurley, and Sadie Frost, Jude Law’s ex-wife. Harry is scheduled to testify on Thursday, January 22, where he will present evidence supporting his claims.
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Distressing Impact of Tabloid Coverage
In written submissions, Harry’s attorney David Sherborne argued that 14 articles published between 2001 and 2013 had a “profoundly distressing effect” on the Duke. The filings claim the coverage left him “paranoid beyond belief,” isolated, and distrustful of those around him. Harry himself stated that the use of terms like “sources” and “friends” was a device to disguise unlawful information gathering. He described the reporting as “deeply troubling” and said it placed a massive strain on his personal relationships.
Focus on Chelsy Davy Relationship
The lawsuit repeatedly references Harry’s former girlfriend Chelsy Davy, whom he dated on and off between 2004 and 2011. Many of the disputed articles focused on their private communications and travels, particularly in South Africa. Harry argues that the level of detail published could only have come from unlawfully obtained information, which ultimately strained the relationship.
Associated Newspapers Responds
Associated Newspapers has “vigorously denied” the allegations, according to the BBC. The publisher maintains that its reporting was lawful and has rejected claims of illegal practices.
Harry’s Determination
Harry’s spokesperson told People that he was “feeling confident and ready” as the trial began. A source close to the Duke described the case as the culmination of years of litigation against multiple U.K. publishers, including The Sun and The Mirror.
“He sees this as an injustice that needs to be righted,” the source said. “People often don’t have the means to stand up to the might of the British tabloid media. But he is a fortunate man in that he has the ability to do this, and he has the will and strength of character to take them on.”
As the trial unfolds, Harry’s testimony is expected to shed further light on the alleged practices of tabloid journalism and its impact on his life.
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