For many years, Prince Harry’s strained relationships with the British royal family, the establishment in the U.K., and the media have been a topic of public scrutiny, showcased through numerous books, interviews, television appearances, and legal battles. Recent developments included Harry speaking candidly in an interview after his attempt to regain full police protection—removed following his decision to step back from royal duties and relocate to the United States in 2020—was denied by the court.
A look back at recent significant events between Harry and the British monarchy reveals the following timeline:
**July 2016**
Prince Harry and American actress Meghan Markle meet through a blind date organized by a mutual acquaintance.
**November 8, 2016**
Harry reveals Meghan as his girlfriend and criticizes the media for their coverage, expressing concern for her safety and accusing the press of using “racial undertones” in their stories, reminiscent of the treatment his late mother, Princess Diana, faced.
**November 27, 2017**
The couple announces their engagement.
**May 19, 2018**
The grand wedding of Harry and Meghan takes place at Windsor Castle.
**Since 2019**
Harry has pursued legal action against major newspaper organizations, including Rupert Murdoch’s News Group, the Mirror Group, and Associated Newspapers, alleging illegal practices such as hacking and deception in stories about his personal life.
**May 6, 2019**
The couple celebrates the birth of their son, Archie.
**January 8, 2020**
The couple announces their intentions to step back from senior royal duties and achieve financial independence, escalating tensions and leading to their move to Meghan’s native California.
**February 2020**
A royal security committee determines that Harry will not receive the same taxpayer-funded protection as when he was a full-time royal.
**September 2020**
Harry challenges the U.K. government in court over this security decision.
**February 11, 2021**
Meghan secures a win in a privacy lawsuit against Associated Newspapers over the publication of a private letter to her estranged father.
**June 4, 2021**
Their daughter, Lilibet, is born.
**September 8, 2022**
The world mourns the passing of Queen Elizabeth II at age 96, ending her 70-year reign. Her eldest son is crowned King Charles III.
**January 10, 2023**
Harry’s memoir “Spare” is released, becoming a best-seller. It details his personal struggles, grievances in his royal role, and criticism of the media and his family members.
**May 6, 2023**
King Charles is crowned, with Harry attending the ceremony unaccompanied by Meghan or their children.
**June 6-7, 2023**
Harry makes history as the first royal in over a century to testify in his lawsuit against the Mirror Group.
**December 5, 2023**
A court hearing begins contesting the decision to reduce Harry’s security. Harry’s legal team argues this decision was “unlawful and unfair.”
**December 15, 2023**
Harry wins his legal battle against the Mirror Group, with the court finding that unlawful practices were employed to gather information about him over several years. He receives compensation and costs.
**February 5, 2024**
Buckingham Palace announces King Charles is undergoing treatment for cancer, though details on his condition are not disclosed.
**February 7, 2024**
Harry travels to the U.K. for a brief visit to see his father, departing shortly after.
**February 28, 2024**
Harry’s security claim is dismissed by the High Court, prompting further legal challenges.
**June 6, 2024**
The Court of Appeal acknowledges Harry’s right to contest the security ruling.
**January 22, 2025**
The publisher of The Sun offers a full apology to Harry, settling a lawsuit over past intrusions into his private life.
**April 8-9, 2025**
Harry’s lawyers contend in an appeal hearing that he is subject to “inferior treatment” regarding security at the Royal Courts of Justice.
**May 2, 2025**
Despite Harry’s efforts, his appeal is rejected as the Court of Appeal deems the security decision “sensible.” In response, Harry expresses a desire for family reconciliation, acknowledging the challenges of resuming legal fights to be counterproductive.