Recent statements from Prince Harry, actor Hugh Grant, and other British figures have brought fresh accusations against Rupert Murdoch and his media holdings. The remarks were reported by the Financial Times, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding press practices in the United Kingdom.
In London, a new set of charges has been presented to the High Court by victims of illegal phone tapping carried out by reporters associated with Murdoch-owned outlets. Prominent names include Hugh Grant and Prince Harry, with other public figures and some politicians also naming themselves as victims. The claim contends that Murdoch, through his corporate ecosystem, was aware of the breaches and allowed them to persist.
On behalf of those harmed, plaintiffs argue that News Corp’s media group, which includes the publishing arm British News Group Newspapers, knowingly targeted public figures who were seen as obstacles to the interests of the company. The intent, as alleged, was to advance commercial or political goals. The documents assert that Murdoch understood the scale and nature of NGN’s alleged wrongdoing as early as 2004.
The lawsuit sheds light on the broader leadership within News Corp, including current and former executives who face new scrutiny. Rebekah Brooks, a former editor-in-chief of a major national newspaper and the daughter of a well-known entrepreneur, is among those highlighted in the latest filings. Her role has been a focal point in discussions about the organization’s editorial practices and accountability.
Historically, the crisis peaked in 2011 when News of the World, a Murdoch-owned tabloid, was forced to shut down after revelations about unauthorized wiretapping and broader privacy abuses. The shutdown marked a turning point and led to significant changes within the company and the wider media landscape in the UK rather than just a single publication.
Separately, media industry chatter has touched on a personal note involving Rupert Murdoch. Reports emerged that the 93-year-old media magnate became engaged to Elena Zhukova, a Russian molecular biologist who is widely described as the former mother-in-law of a well-known billionaire. The couple reportedly began their relationship in the summer of 2023, with plans announced for a wedding the following year. The developments have drawn attention given Murdoch’s long-standing public prominence and influence over media enterprises worldwide.
In other public interest news, authorities pressed forward with an inquiry into attempts to obtain Kate Middleton’s medical information. While the broader case continues to unfold, investigators have emphasized the importance of privacy protection and the due process afforded to individuals who may have been affected by invasive data practices.