A sensational legal battle is set to unfold this week, pitting a prominent member of the British royal family against a renowned media mogul. Prince Harry’s lawsuit against Rupert Murdoch’s newspaper empire, which includes the Sun and the former News of the World, will commence at the High Court in London on Tuesday.
As fifth in line to the throne, Prince Harry currently resides in California but will make a personal appearance in court once proceedings begin next month. The Duke of Sussex is taking legal action against News Group Newspapers (NGN) for alleged unlawful intrusion into his private life by journalists from 1996 to 2011. He views himself as a key figure seeking accountability from newspapers for their actions. Another case involving Lord Watson will also be heard alongside Prince Harry’s.
View image in fullscreenActor Hugh Grant accepted a settlement last year after finding out he could be liable for £10m in costs. Photograph: PA Images/Alamy
Approximately 40 other claimants, including celebrities like Hugh Grant and Sienna Miller, have already settled with Murdoch’s group due to fears of hefty legal fees even after winning a trial. Rejecting NGN’s financial offers could have resulted in millions owed by these claimants. Prince Harry emphasized accountability as his driving force behind pursuing this case.
The civil trial is expected to feature testimonies from notable witnesses such as Grant, Miller, Lily Allen, Gordon Brown, Shabana Mahmood, and whistleblowing journalists over several weeks until mid-March. Prominent figures within British media like Murdoch and his son James are set to defend themselves against allegations of wrongdoing related to concealing unlawful activities.
Key individuals such as Rebekah Brooks and Victoria Newton from News UK are also implicated in this legal battle alongside Will Lewis who faces accusations of involvement in covering up hacking evidence. NGN has denied any wrongdoing while facing scrutiny during this high-profile trial.
Stay tuned for updates on this compelling courtroom drama that has captured global attention.
2025-01-19 07:00:10
Source from www.theguardian.com