Elton John is reportedly furious with Prince Harry after the Duke of Sussex allegedly asked him for money just before their High Court defeat against the Daily Mail's publisher, Associated Newspapers Ltd (ANL), last week. Harry, 41, and Sir Elton, 79, were among several high-profile figures pursuing legal action against the publishing company over allegations of unlawful activities, including hiring private investigators to plant listening devices in cars, 'blagging' private records, and accessing private phone conversations.
Harry's Request for Invictus Games Funding
Harry reportedly sought financial support from the singer-songwriter for the Invictus Games. The claims were made by royal reporter Paula Froelich, who alleged that sources told her the Rocket Man hitmaker had 'had enough of the wayward and hot-tempered Prince'. According to Paula, who reported last week that the Sussexes had been residing at Sir Elton's home in the south of France before they travelled to the UK, the musician bluntly said: 'I am not an ATM.'
Funding Shortfall and Legal Bills
Paula wrote in her Substack: 'I am told that Harry, facing a massive funding shortfall for Invictus, had stopped by Elton and his husband David Furnish's place in the South of France to ask for money before arriving in London.' She added: 'Sir Elton, already aware that he would be on the hook for the majority of the legal bills should the claimants lose, was reportedly not interested in donating - especially as he knew he would be facing a massive payout in the event that his group would not win their claims.'
During an appearance on Sky News Australia, Paula claimed the only reason that Harry visited the UK is because he needed to raise funds for the Invictus Games, which is taking place next year. She claimed that he is £25 million short, having amassed only £4 million so far from corporates and anonymous donors.
Elton's Fury Over Harry's Court Statement
'Harry has asked Elton to give him some money for Invictus. Elton has said no because this court case is such a big deal. He asked Elton before the judge came down with the ruling, but Elton saw where the wind was blowing,' she told Sky News presenter Danica De Giorgio. 'Elton and Harry assured everyone else they would take care of the fees, but Harry doesn't have that money. Harry also stuck the knife in when he gave his statement to the press. It was rushed, hurried and a huge tantrum.'
She said that Harry had accused Judge Matthew Nicklin of being 'corrupt,' describing it as a significant misstep given that the judge has the authority to determine the damages the claimants may be ordered to pay. 'Elton is said to be furious because this will likely cost Elton millions more,' she added. Express.co.uk has approached a representative for Elton John for comment.
