The account of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s two-hour “near catastrophic” car ride through New York City continues to face growing doubt. Initially described by their spokesperson as a “relentless pursuit” by paparazzi that allegedly put lives at risk, the narrative has been questioned by several individuals and sources, including law enforcement officials, eyewitnesses, and media figures.
In May 2023, Harry and Meghan claimed they endured a harrowing experience after attending a charity event in Manhattan. According to the couple’s spokesperson, a high-speed car chase ensued as paparazzi followed them through the city streets, endangering not only the couple but also bystanders and police. Their account painted a dramatic picture, raising concerns about the resurgence of aggressive paparazzi behavior reminiscent of what Princess Diana faced in the 1990s.
The statement emphasized the severity of the incident, which the couple's team described as lasting over two hours, leading to near-collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, and law enforcement officers.
Soon after the allegations surfaced, the New York Police Department (NYPD) offered a less alarming version of the incident. While confirming that paparazzi were present, the NYPD clarified that they did not witness any life-threatening situations. The police department reported escorting the couple safely to their destination without major incidents. This statement marked one of the first indications of the growing skepticism surrounding Harry and Meghan’s claims.
Additionally, a taxi driver involved in the event, who briefly transported the couple during their alleged chase, expressed doubts about the severity of the situation. In an interview, the driver, Sukhcharn Singh, acknowledged that while paparazzi were indeed following the couple, he would not describe the experience as a “chase” and certainly not “catastrophic.” Singh's version of events downplayed the level of danger, stating that there was traffic and the ride was slow.
Various media outlets and public figures have also cast doubt on the couple’s claims. Piers Morgan, a longtime critic of Harry and Meghan, publicly questioned the credibility of their account. On his show, Morgan pointed out inconsistencies in the story, particularly the fact that New York City’s traffic patterns make it unlikely for a high-speed chase to occur for two hours. Other media commentators echoed Morgan’s skepticism, highlighting the absence of substantial evidence supporting the claim of a dangerous pursuit.
Even some royal commentators expressed disbelief, suggesting that the incident may have been exaggerated to fit a narrative of victimization that Harry and Meghan have often portrayed in the media. Critics argued that the couple's ongoing struggle with the British press has led them to paint the media in an unflattering and, in this case, potentially inaccurate light.
The growing skepticism surrounding this incident has undoubtedly affected Harry and Meghan’s public image. While many of their supporters continue to stand by them, others have started to question their credibility and motives. The conflicting accounts from law enforcement, eyewitnesses, and media figures have fueled doubts about the couple’s version of events, casting a shadow over their relationship with the press and the public.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Harry and Meghan will address these doubts or let the matter fade into the background. What is clear, however, is that this episode has further complicated their already fraught relationship with the media and public scrutiny.
