Prince Harry accuses Piers Morgan of ‘horrific personal attacks’
Prince Harry has accused former editor of Daily Mirror, Piers Morgan, of intimidating him and his wife, Meghan Markle, since he launched legal proceedings against the newspaper over hacking claims. Morgan, who left Good Morning Britain earlier this year, faced criticism for his comments on Markle’s explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey. In a statement to the High Court, Harry alleged that both he and his wife have been subjected to a barrage of horrific personal attacks and intimidation from Piers Morgan.
The hacking claims and legal proceedings
Prince Harry is currently suing Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) for damages, alleging that journalists at its titles were linked to phone hacking, gaining information by deception, and using private investigators for unlawful activities. About 140 articles published between 1996 and 2010 containing information gathered using unlawful methods have been identified and 33 of these have been selected to be considered at the trial. MGN denies or does not admit each of these claims.
Cross-examination and the public interest
During cross-examination, Harry was accused of being ‘in the realms of total speculation’ by Andrew Green, KC for Mirror Group Newspapers, when he was asked about a Mirror article titled ‘Harry’s cocaine, ecstasy and GHB parties’, which claimed his father was ‘worried sick’ about his son. The barrister repeatedly claimed that the information in stories that Harry claims contained details from hacked voicemails or gathered by illegal means actually came from other media outlets, including the BBC, press releases, palace statements, and public comments made by his mother Princess Diana.
Harry was also asked about his own drug use when he was third in line to the throne, suggesting that it was not in the public interest to report on it. He said, “There’s a difference between public interest and what interests the public.”
Editorial: The importance of mental health awareness
The public feud between Prince Harry and Piers Morgan has once again brought up the issue of the impact of media on individuals’ mental health. Harry’s accusation of horrific personal attacks and intimidation against Morgan is a stark reminder of the kind of negative impact that media can have on the mental health of both public figures and ordinary individuals.
It is vital that media outlets and journalists recognize that their words have consequences, and they have a duty of care not to engage in cyberbullying, harassment, or intimidation. It is also essential to promote mental health awareness and to provide support and resources for those who are affected by mental health issues.
Advice: Seek help if you’re struggling with your mental health
If you or someone you know is struggling with your mental health, help is available. You can speak to a therapist or counselor, contact a mental health helpline, or seek support from friends and loved ones. Remember, you are not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help.
<< photo by Eric Ward >>
