Father Ted creator Graham Linehan pleads not guilty to harassing trans woman
Comedian and writer Graham Linehan. Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)
Comedian and writer Graham Linehan. Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)
Comedy writer turned anti-trans activist Graham Linehan has pleaded not guilty to harassing a trans woman and damaging her phone.
The Irish comedy writer, who created hit sitcoms Father Ted, Black Books and the IT Crowd, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday (12 May) and denied he harassed trans woman Sophia Brooks on social media and damaged her mobile phone, which was valued at £369.
The incident in which her phone was damaged allegedly took place at the Battle of Ideas festival on 19 October 2024, where Linehan was a speaker, and he is also accused of publishing abusive comments about her on social media between 11 October and 27 October.
In court, the 56-year-old writer spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and plea. He said “not guilty” when both charges were put to him.
After his court appearance, Linehan stood outside with a group of supporters, wearing t-shirt which featured a picture of the Daily Telegraph’s front page following the Supreme Court’s controversial ruling on the definition of ‘sex’ in the 2010 Equality Act with the headline: ‘Trans women are not women’.
Speaking outside Westminster Magistrates Court, he said: “For six years, ever since I began defending the rights of women and children against a dangerous ideology, I have faced harassment, abuse and threats.
“I’ve lost a great deal, but I am still here, and I will not waver in my resolve.”
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed Linehan had been charged with harassment without violence and criminal damage in April.
He was granted bail on condition he did not contact the complainant directly or indirectly.
Deputy District Judge Louise Balmain said the trial is set for 4 September and freed Linehan on bail, with the condition he does not contact the complainant in the case directly or indirectly.
