News of the World, a British tabloid newspaper, published its last edition amid a scandal involving widespread phone hacking practices that severely tainted its reputation. Founded in 1843, it had been one of the most popular newspapers in the UK for nearly 168 years, known for its sensationalist stories and celebrity gossip. However, revelations surfaced indicating that journalists at the newspaper had engaged in unethical practices such as hacking into the voicemail accounts of celebrities, politicians, and even crime victims. These controversies led to a massive political and public outcry, triggering investigations by law enforcement and parliamentary committees. The final issue, released on July 10, 2011, featured a cover declaring, “Thank You & Goodbye,” and included tributes from its journalists. The closure symbolized the end of an era for tabloid journalism in the UK and served as a critical moment in addressing media ethics.

As the scandal unfolded, it became apparent that the methods employed by the News of the World were not isolated incidents but indicative of a broader culture of misconduct within certain segments of the British press. The phone hacking scandal prompted a national conversation about press regulation and ethics, leading to significant reforms and increased scrutiny of the media industry in subsequent years. Beyond the closure of the newspaper, many individuals faced legal actions, and the scandal exposed deep-rooted issues in the relationships between the press, law enforcement, and political entities.