Janice R. Andrews
A groundbreaking settlement has been reached between Prince Harry and News Group Newspapers (NGN), Rupert Murdoch’s media company that publishes The Sun. In an unprecedented move, NGN has formally apologized and acknowledged illegal surveillance of both Prince Harry and Princess Diana.
The settlement, announced January 22, reveals that NGN conducted phone hacking and hired private investigators to monitor Prince Harry over a 15-year period from 1996 to 2011. The media group issued a comprehensive apology and agreed to compensate Prince Harry with what sources indicate is a substantial eight-figure settlement.
This resolution marks a historic first, with NGN explicitly admitting to these invasive practices. The company’s statement included apologies for causing distress to both Harry and his late mother Diana, particularly addressing intrusions into her private life during her youth.
Prince Harry, who persisted with his case when many others settled, has received praise from former Labour MP Tom Watson, who highlighted the significance of holding a major media organization accountable. Watson called for a personal apology from Rupert Murdoch to the prince and his family.
While other celebrities like Hugh Grant and Sienna Miller have reached similar settlements previously, Harry’s unwavering pursuit of justice has set a new precedent in the ongoing debate over media ethics and privacy rights. The case’s resolution represents a significant milestone in the broader movement to reform press practices and protect individual privacy.
