There's a New Development in the Kate Middleton Topless Photo Case
Ugh, at all of this.
While vacationing in southern France in 2012, Prince William and Kate Middleton were photographed without their consent by paparazzi, who managed to snap photos of the duchess sunbathing nude—including one where William is rubbing sunscreen on her. St. James's Palace issued a statement after the photos were published in French magazine Closer (saying they were "reminiscent of the worst excesses of the press and paparazzi during the life of Diana, Princess of Wales") and the royal family swiftly took action.
The French editor who published the photos argues the photos offer a "flattering portrayal" of the royal couple, according to ABC News. She also claimed that the balcony where they were seen gets passed by "thousands of cars" every day, and that "security was more an issue rather than media frenzy."
Thanks to a lawsuit against photographers and editors of Closer, the magazine might have to pay 1.5 million euro for damages. The thing is, a court in Nanterre just reportedly postponed the ruling from July 4th until September—which means Kate and William have to wait a few more months until justice is (potentially) served.
The trial began in May, at which point the couple's lawyer Jean Veil released the following statement from Prince William:
"In September 2012, my wife and I thought that we could go to France for a few days in a secluded villa owned by a member of my family, and thus enjoy our privacy. We know France and the French and we know that they are, in principle, respectful of private life, including that of their guests. The clandestine way in which these photographs were taken was particularly shocking to us as it breached our privacy."
As previously mentioned, Kate and William are seeking fines of 1.5 million euros.
Follow Marie Claire on Facebook for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Mehera Bonner is a celebrity and entertainment news writer who enjoys Bravo and Antiques Roadshow with equal enthusiasm. She was previously entertainment editor at Marie Claire and has covered pop culture for over a decade.
-
Kristin Cavallari and Jason Statham Had a "Full-On Relationship" Not Just a "Hookup," Claims Source
Interesting!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Jason Statham "Has Nothing to Say About" Kristin Cavallari Calling Him Her "Hottest Hookup," Source Claims
Ouch.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Netflix's Charming Mystery 'A Man on the Inside' Ends With Amateur Spy Charles on Another Case—Will There Be a Season 2?
We're already eager to see more sleuthing from Ted Danson!
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Royal Expert Says to "Never Underestimate" Princess Kate's Ability to Pull Out a Major "Surprise" During Upcoming Holiday Event
Merry Katemas!
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince William and Kate Middleton Didn't Just Move to "Modest" Windsor Home to be Closer to Queen Elizabeth, Royal Expert Says
"There's not a huge amount of space, but Adelaide Cottage ticks all the right boxes."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Princess Kate Missed Glittering Tiara Reception for First Time in a Decade—But Quietly Carried Out Another Royal Duty
"If she did start returning to major social events, that would lead people to think things are back to normal, which isn't the case."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Former Royal Journalist Shares the Time Princess Diana Tricked the Press and Swapped Outfits for a 'Microscopic' Ensemble
'I'm a Celebrity' star Jane Moore got a secret glimpse of the royal.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Princess Diana's Chauffeur Only Found Out Why He Was Fired After Watching 'The Crown' Almost 30 Years Later
"The consequence for me was that I was forced out of a job I wanted to be my life’s work."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
The Christmas Traditions Princess Kate and Prince William Share With Their Kids Every Year
From incorporating the late Queen's favorite tree to attending fun and festive events.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
King Charles Might Snub Prince Andrew This Christmas by Banning Him From Sandringham
Charles reportedly views his brother as a "loose cannon."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Kate Middleton and Duchess Sophie Share One Thing in Common Unlike "Royal Brides Before Them," Royal Expert Says
"They have a sisterly bond."
By Kristin Contino Published