Prince Harry and Meghan Markle hit back against new royal book claims: 'Deranged conspiracy'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have hit back against a new royal book, describing its claims as “deranged conspiracy”.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have responded to author Tom Bower’s upcoming book, titled ‘Betrayal: Power, Deceit and the Fight for the Future of the Royal Family’.

Excerpts from the book were published by The Times on March 13, with the snippets containing many controversial claims.

In his book, the 79-year-old author alleges that Meghan’s influence distanced Harry from his friends and family. The book also questions elements of the couple’s finances and media ventures.

A representative for the Duke and Duchess has since released a statement to PEOPLE, hitting back against the claims made by Mr Bower.

The rep said: “Mr. Bower’s commentary has long crossed the line from criticism into fixation. This is someone who has publicly stated, ‘The monarchy in fact depends on actually obliterating the Sussexes from our state of life,’ language that speaks for itself.”

They added: “He has made a career out of constructing ever more elaborate theories about people he does not know and has never met. Those interested in facts will look elsewhere; those seeking deranged conspiracy and melodrama know exactly where to find him.”

The book’s excerpts also caused frustration amongst the competitors of the Invictus Games. The international sporting competition was founded by Prince Harry in 2014, and allows wounded, injured and sick service members to compete.

In his book, Mr Bower claims that the 2025 Invictus Games in Canada were overshadowed by the attendance of Harry and Meghan.

The excerpt also appeared to question the legitimacy of some competitors’ injuries, particularly those struggling with mental illness.

A representative for the Games has since spoken out against the excerpt, describing it as “deeply disrespectful”.

The rep shared: “It is disappointing to see The Times give prominence to commentary that appears driven by a long-established agenda rather than a genuine understanding of the Invictus Games and the community it supports.”

The rep noted that the Games are focused on “the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans from around the world,” and that questioning the competitors’ legitimacy is “deeply disrespectful to the men and women the Games were created for.”

The statement added: “The focus should remain where it belongs — on the courage, recovery and camaraderie of those who have served.”

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