Britain's Prince Harry has hit out at what he described as the "wave of abuse and harassment" his girlfriend, the US actress Meghan Markle, has suffered including sexism and racism.
In an unprecedented statement from Kensington Palace, the 32-year-old royal confirmed his relationship with the star and urged media organisations to refrain from "further damage" as he blasted the smears and "racial undertones" appearing in newspaper articles about his relationship with actress who is best known for her role as Rachel Zane in the US TV drama Suits.
Harry also said he remains uncomfortable with public interest in his private life, which has rocketed since rumours began circulating that he was dating 35-year-old Markle.
"The past week has seen a line crossed. His girlfriend, Meghan Markle, has been subject to a wave of abuse and harassment," said a statement posted from the Kensington Palace Twitter account.
Kensington Palace has issued a statement this morning about the harassment currently being experienced by Meghan Markle and her family. pic.twitter.com/EuFZ4fmUIj
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) November 8, 2016
The Palace also said Harry is worried about Markle's safety.
"Prince Harry is worried about Ms Markle's safety and is deeply disappointed that he has not been able to protect her. It is not right that a few months into a relationship with him that Ms Markle should be subjected to such a storm.
"He knows commentators will say this is 'the price she has to pay' and that 'this is all part of the game'. He strongly disagrees. This is not a game -- it is her life and his."
Reports began to circulate earlier this month that the pair were dating, having met in Toronto in May while Harry was promoting the Invictus Games.
Markle has reportedly visited Harry in London numerous times since they embarked on their romance, with the star even spotted in the royal box at Wimbledon.
