Prince Harry has reportedly been left angry and embarrassed after a fresh media exposé revisited stories from his younger years, with a source claiming the article was deliberately published when he was at a particularly difficult point in his life.
According to reports, journalist Charlotte Griffiths wrote a lengthy article recalling a weekend spent with Harry in Hampshire in 2011, describing the Duke of Sussex as mischievous, a practical joker and a "party prince."
The article reportedly appeared shortly after Harry suffered a setback in his phone-hacking legal battle against the Daily Mail, prompting claims from an unnamed source that the timing was intentional.
The source alleged Harry viewed the article as a "trumped-up hatchet piece" that had been prepared long in advance and released when he was perceived to be at his "lowest ebb."
According to the report, Harry is said to be feeling "angry, confused and fearful" about the potential fallout but has decided against responding publicly.
The source claimed the Duke would like to challenge some of the claims but has been advised not to fuel further attention while he focuses on other priorities, including the Invictus Games.
The report also alleged that Harry was disappointed after an invitation to stay at a royal property during a UK visit with his family was reportedly withdrawn at the last minute.
Meghan Markle reportedly concerned
The report further claimed Meghan Markle has read the article and found it "cringeworthy" and unfortunate.
According to the unnamed source, Meghan is concerned about Harry's wellbeing as he continues to deal with legal matters, family tensions and financial pressures.
The source also alleged the couple remain worried about the potential impact on their public image and business ventures.
Journalist revisits Harry's past
In the article, Griffiths reportedly reflected on Harry's younger years, writing that he was "mischievous, irreverent and occasionally exasperating," while adding that the person he has become is someone she "barely recognises."
The claims attributed to unnamed sources and the journalist's recollections have not been independently verified, and Prince Harry has not publicly responded to the report.
