Prince Harry settles legal claim against Sun publisher
GuardianJAN 25
Prince Harry Settles Lawsuit, Murdoch Media Group Issues Full Apology
Above: Barrister David Sherborne (C) stands next to former Labour deputy leader Lord Tom Watson (L), as he speaks to the media outside the High Court on Jan. 22, 2025 in London, England. Image copyright: Leon Neal/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Prince Harry's settlement against NGN is a monumental step in holding the Murdoch empire accountable for years of unlawful actions. Most poignantly, NGN's apology for the intrusion into Princess Diana's life brings long-awaited closure. After years of relentless battles, Harry has finally secured justice for his mother. His courage in standing up to powerful media forces has not only vindicated him, but also brought overdue accountability to a corrupt system.
Right narrative
Prince Harry’s settlement with NGN shows his fight was more about money than justice. After years of framing this as a moral crusade, he accepted a likely eight-figure payout without forcing a trial. NGN apologized but admitted no criminal liability, leaving key questions unanswered. Unlike his brother, Prince William, who received the same apology quietly a decade ago, Harry made a spectacle of it. In the end, he backed down, leaving the media largely unscathed.