Prince Harry's upcoming trial against News Group Newspapers (NGN) in January 2025 has cast a shadow over the British royal family, with experts warning that the Duke of Sussex could create "absolute havoc" for King Charles. The case, centering on allegations of unlawful information gathering, has left many members of the royal family "nervously" anticipating Harry's return to the United Kingdom.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams, speaking exclusively to GB News, underscored the potential ramifications of Harry's court appearance. "The trial will be sensational, just like his last appearance in the witness box," Fitzwilliams said. "If Harry were to say something in court that he claims the King said to him, whether or not the King actually did, it would cause absolute havoc."
The stakes are high for the Duke of Sussex, who has accused NGN, the publisher of The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World, of obtaining private information through illegal means between 1996 and 2011. Harry is one of only two claimants whose cases remain active, while 39 others, including high-profile figures like Spice Girl Melanie Brown and Queen Camilla's nephew Ben Elliot, have settled.
This trial marks a rare moment in royal history, as Harry becomes one of the few royals to take the witness stand. His previous testimony during a lawsuit against the publisher of the Daily Mirror in June 2023 drew significant attention, with experts calling it a "sensational" appearance. Notably, Princess Anne is the only other royal in recent history to appear in court, pleading guilty to a charge under the Dangerous Dogs Act in 2002.
Fitzwilliams emphasized the broader implications of Harry's legal battle. "What Harry is trying to do is make a point that he wants to reform the British media," he said. "That is what he regards as his life's work."
The Duke's relationship with his father, King Charles, remains fraught. Following Harry and Meghan Markle's explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021 and the release of Harry's memoir, Spare, their ties have become increasingly strained. Fitzwilliams suggested that a reunion between the King and his son during Harry's visit to the UK is highly unlikely. "I think it's most unlikely that in the period where he is over, the King and he will see each other," he stated.
Adding to the tension are rumors about Harry's personal life. During a recent appearance in New York, the Duke laughed off speculation about a split with Meghan Markle, asserting that he has no immediate plans to return to the UK permanently. The couple, who stepped back from royal duties in 2020, have faced relentless media scrutiny since relocating to the United States.
The upcoming trial is expected to delve into sensitive details, with potential allegations that could implicate King Charles. Observers warn that Harry's testimony might trigger a fresh wave of controversy for the monarchy. "Whilst Harry has two court cases outstanding, it appears there is nervousness about what he might say when under cross-examination or to his solicitors that might involve the monarch," Fitzwilliams said.
