In a stunning conclusion to a high-profile legal battle, Prince Harry has reached a settlement with Rupert Murdoch's News Group Newspapers (NGN) over allegations of unlawful activities including phone hacking, which plagued his life for years.

On January 22, 2025, during what was supposed to be the commencement of an extensive legal trial, Harry's barrister, David Sherborne, announced that both parties had come to an agreement. NGN offered a "full and unequivocal apology" to the Duke of Sussex for the significant intrusion into his private life from 1996 to 2011. The statement also acknowledged the unlawful actions committed by private investigators working for The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World, as reported by Le Monde.

The settlement, which includes substantial damages, is considered a monumental victory for the Prince, who has been vocal about seeking accountability rather than monetary compensation.

In a courtroom statement, Sherborne read the apology which highlighted the severe intrusion into Harry's life and the immense distress caused not only to him but also to his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. “We acknowledge and apologise for the distress caused to the duke, and the damage inflicted on relationships, friendships and family,” the statement said, as detailed by USA Today.

Harry's legal battle against NGN and similar media entities has spanned over several years, igniting significant public interest due to the media's impact on his family's life. He previously stated that his motivation was rooted in uncovering the truth about the media's practices, particularly after his own family members, including his brother Prince William, had settled claims against NGN without public admission of wrongdoing.

NGN's apology represents a rare acknowledgment of misconduct from one of the most influential media organizations in the UK and marks a significant moment in the ongoing scrutiny of media practices. The fallout from this settlement could potentially influence Harry's other ongoing litigation against different media entities, including a case against the publisher of the Daily Mail, scheduled for trial next year.

The outcome enhances the ongoing conversation about media ethics and privacy rights, especially in light of the historical context surrounding high-profile cases such as Harry’s and the tragic circumstances surrounding Princess Diana's death. Following this settlement, advocates and supporters of media reform will be closely watching how this could affect future cases involving media malpractice.

For more updates on this developing story, visit CBS News.