The sources also said that they approached The Times because they considered that the version of the Duchess that appeared in public is only partially true and that they are worried about the way the intimidation problems were treated. The report said sources believed the public “should have a perspective on their part of the story” ahead of the couple’s long-awaited interview with Oprah Winfrey, which will air on Sunday, their first appearance since leaving London for America. North last year.
Buckingham Palace said it was “very concerned” by the allegations in the report.
“Consequently, our human resources team will analyze the circumstances outlined in the article. Members of staff involved at the time, including those who left the household, will be invited to attend to see if lessons can be learned,” his statement said. . .
“The Royal House has had a policy on dignity at work for several years and does not tolerate and will not tolerate aggression or harassment at work.”
Prince Harry and Meghan announced in January 2020 that they were taking a step back as members of the royal family and moved to North America shortly thereafter. Buckingham Palace confirmed last month that the couple had agreed with Queen Elizabeth II, Harry’s grandmother, that they would not return as working kings.
The move sparked talks about a rift between the couple – who are settled in California and are expecting their second child – and the British royal family.
A Sussex spokesman dismissed the Times report as “a calculated smear campaign” ahead of the couple’s interview with Winfrey.
“Let’s call it what it is – a calculated smear campaign based on misleading and harmful misinformation. We are disappointed to see this defamatory portrayal of the Duchess of Sussex given credibility by a media outlet,” the spokesman said.
“The Duchess is saddened by this latest attack on her character, especially as someone who was the target of aggression and is deeply committed to supporting those who have suffered pain and trauma. She is determined to continue her work, building compassion around the world. and will continue to strive to set an example to do what is right and to do what is right. “
The spokesman said the allegations in the Times report were “defamatory” and that a legal rejection letter had been sent to the press.
The Times declined to comment when approached by CNN.
Harry reached the pressures of royal life during a conversation with his British colleague James Corden for the “Late Late Show” last month.
“It was a really difficult environment,” the duke said. “We all know what the British press can be like … and it was destroying my mental health. I was like, “This is toxic,” so I did what any husband and father would do: I have to get my family out of here. “
Harry and Meghan have been embroiled in a long war of words and lawsuits with much of the tabloid media, battling several legal cases against publications and photo agencies that have printed details about their privacy.
Last month, Meghan won a confidentiality lawsuit against Mail publishers on Sunday, after they published a letter she sent to her father and issued a harsh rebuke to “dehumanizing” media organizations after the verdict, saying “the damage to who did them and continue to do deep runs. “