Prince Harry appears in court against Daily Mail

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, appeared in a London court on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, to press his claims against the publisher of the Daily Mail, Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL).

Reports said Harry was visibly emotional while giving his testimony at the High Court. He told the court that the constant media scrutiny of him and his wife, Meghan Markle, caused "absolute misery" for her.

"They keep attacking us. They made my wife's life miserable, My Lord," Harry said, struggling to hold back tears. He added that the legal process was a "horrible experience" and strongly criticized the mistreatment they faced, despite their simple requests for an "apology" and "accountability."

Harry is one of seven high-profile individuals who filed claims against ANL. Others include Sir Elton John and his husband David Furnish, campaigner Baroness Doreen Lawrence, former MP Sir Simon Hughes, and actors Sadie Frost and Liz Hurley. All allege that ANL obtained information illegally, including through phone hacking and unauthorized access to private records.

In court, Harry denied ever using the fake name "Mr Mischief" to communicate with a Mail on Sunday journalist. He also rejected claims that he socialized with diary editor Charlotte Griffins in Ibiza in 2011 or 2012. He explained that he visited Ibiza only once, with his wife and son, and cut ties immediately after learning Griffins was a journalist.

Harry’s complaint also highlights intrusion into his private life, including articles about his former girlfriends Chelsy Davy and Cressida Bonas. He described some stories as "creepy," which worsened his paranoia and reinforced his longstanding distrust of the press following the death of his mother, Princess Diana.

He added that media attacks intensified when Meghan was pregnant with their first son, Archie. He described the press coverage as "racist," "intrusive," and "persistent," which significantly affected his family.

On the witness stand, Harry remained polite during nearly two hours of testimony, although his emotions were clear, especially when Meghan was mentioned. His witness statement spans 23 pages. During cross-examination, he denied all allegations, and the judge advised him not to argue but to answer questions, as that is the role of his lawyer, David Sherborne.

Harry said the articles cited in the case were published between 2001 and 2013. He explained that the Royal Family’s tradition of "never complain, never explain" made it difficult for him to raise concerns earlier. After he and Meghan stepped back from royal duties, they expected a quieter life, but media scrutiny continued, prompting legal action. Harry currently lives with Meghan and their children in California, United States.

The next court session is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Thursday, 22 January 2026.

Harry is also involved in other legal battles to ensure his family’s security when they return to the U.K. Recently, he won a case that entitles him to armed protection as the Duke of Sussex.