While the media often portrays Prince William as Prince Harry’s biggest adversary, Harry himself sees the British press as his true enemy.
Harry has long been at odds with the British media, which he feels has invaded his and Meghan Markle’s private lives ever since their marriage in 2018. Unlike other members of the Royal Family, who adhere to a policy of “never explain, never complain,” Harry has actively challenged the press. His latest confrontation with the media is a significant part of this ongoing struggle.
In a recent interview for the ITV documentary Tabloids On Trial, which aired on July 25, Harry discussed his deep-seated issues with the media. The documentary explored the phone-hacking scandal that led to the closure of the News of the World and several lawsuits against its parent company, Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN). The film featured interviews with celebrities like Hugh Grant, Charlotte Church, and Prince Harry, all of whom have been affected by these invasive practices.
Harry’s Concerns for Meghan’s Safety
During the interview, Harry made it clear that his legal battle with MGN was about more than just the press’s intrusion. He expressed serious concerns for Meghan’s safety, citing fears that the media’s relentless attention could inspire dangerous behavior from individuals. Harry noted that he worries about “lone actors” who might act violently after reading negative press about Meghan.
Harry’s comments reveal why Meghan has rarely been seen in the U.K. since their move to California in 2020. She only returned once, for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022, and did not attend King Charles III’s coronation. According to Harry, the threat of harm from those influenced by the media’s portrayal of Meghan is a significant factor in their decision to stay away from the U.K.
A Broader Context
Interestingly, although Harry fears for Meghan’s safety due to the British press, a recent case involved an American citizen, Thomas Crooks, who researched a Royal family member before targeting former President Donald Trump. This case highlights that concerns about threats to public figures are not limited to the U.K.
Overall, Harry’s legal actions and public statements underscore his belief that the media’s actions pose a genuine and ongoing danger to his family.
