Prince Harry refuted claims of being identified as ‘Mr Mischief’ during his High Court confrontation with the Daily Mail. In the legal battle, Antony White KC, representing Associated Newspapers Limited, alleged that the Duke of Sussex utilized a Facebook account under the name “Mr Mischief” to correspond with a Mail On Sunday reporter.
During questioning, White inquired if Harry had met Charlotte Griffiths, who he asserted was part of the duke’s social circle. Harry responded that he was unaware of Griffiths being a journalist when they first encountered each other in 2011, despite White citing an alleged meeting in Ibiza.
Disputing the claim, Harry stated he doubted ever visiting Ibiza except with his spouse, the Duchess of Sussex. White further contended that Harry conversed with Griffiths using the “Mr Mischief” profile, exchanging friendly messages and contact information on social media. In response, Harry denied ever adopting the alias and expressed uncertainty regarding any interactions with Griffiths on Facebook.
The legal dispute involves 14 articles published by Associated Newspapers, primarily focusing on Chelsy Davy, referred to as Harry’s ‘one true love’. The lawsuit alleges that the newspaper’s information-gathering tactics strained personal relationships and caused distress to Davy, among others.
Notable figures including Sir Elton John, David Furnish, Baroness Doreen Lawrence, Sir Simon Hughes, Sadie Frost, and Liz Hurley are also pursuing legal action against ANL for alleged unlawful data acquisition methods. ANL contests the accusations, asserting that the lawsuit was filed too late and defending its journalists against the claims.
Harry described feeling hounded and surveilled by the press, citing intrusive articles about his personal life that fueled paranoia and speculated his vulnerability to substance abuse for sensationalism. The Duke of Sussex, known for his assertive stance in court submissions, engaged in tense exchanges with ANL’s barrister during his testimony.
In a lighter moment, laughter filled the courtroom as Harry humorously navigated formalities, indicating a strained history with media scrutiny stemming from his mother’s tragic treatment by the press. The hearing remains ongoing.