Prince Harry's Tabloid War: Duke Will 'Fight to Expose Illegal Tactics' of British Publications in New Documentary

Prince Harry is set to appear in another documentary, Tabloids on Trial, which this time details his "fight to expose illegal tactics" in the media. The program will hear his side of the story in candid detail and also feature other big names such as Charlotte Church, Hugh Grant and Paul Gascoigne — all of whom were also victims of a widespread phone hacking scandal initiated by certain British tabloids.

The Hollywood Reporter has described the doc as a chance for viewers to "hear about his [Harry's] mission to continue his fight to expose the illegal tactics of Britain’s tabloid press, and explore what those in charge at Fleet Street really knew as this scandal unfolded."

In February, Harry reached a settlement with the publisher of a tabloid over allegations of phone hacking. The settlement concludes a legal battle in which Harry accused the publisher of unlawfully intercepting his voicemails. The fiery-haired prince was awarded 140,000 pounds in damages as part of the settlement with News Group Newspapers, the publisher of The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World. That settlement marked the end of one of several legal cases Harry has brought against British tabloids for what he describes as a systematic invasion of his privacy.

The lawsuit claimed that reporters and private investigators working for the newspapers had intercepted his voicemails from what the judge said was roughly 2003-2009, in which reporters gained access to personal and confidential information. Harry's legal team argued that this information was then used to produce stories that invaded his privacy and caused significant distress.

From a young age, Harry was acutely aware of the relentless scrutiny of the media, which is part of being a public figure and senior royal in the world's most popular monarchy. However, this invasive coverage intensified after the tragic death of his mother, Princess Diana in 1997, who was pursued by the paparazzi until her untimely demise.

According to the Duke, the constant barrage of media attention has had a profound impact on him, shaping his views on the need for a responsible and ethical press.

The program reportedly "aims to ignite a broader discussion about media ethics and the need for reform." By sharing his experiences and those of others affected by tabloid intrusions, Harry hopes to galvanize "a movement" of sorts for the "incredibly privileged folk bugged by this ancient, end of the world catastrophe," as one palace insider described it.

As Harry's message reaches a global audience, the impact of his advocacy is poised to extend well beyond the television screen. "This is a crucial moment in the ongoing fight for media accountability, with Harry's voice serving as a powerful catalyst for change," a commenter on X shared.

The Daily Beast reported on Tabloids on Trial.