An unnamed British celebrity has lost a legal bid to prevent ITN and Guardian News and Media from publishing his identity in connection with allegations of sexual misconduct. He will remain anonymous while he pursues an appeal, and the British press has been warned not to publish details that could identify him during that period.
The man sought an injunction, arguing that publication would put him at “highly likely” risk of suicide. His lawyer, Sara Mansoori, told the court that he had attempted suicide twice, spent months in hospital, been detained involuntarily and been assessed by more than 10 doctors. She said he did not intend to return to public life.
Justice Nicklin rejected the injunction request. He stressed that the court had not assessed whether the allegations were true and that dismissing the claim did not endorse any publication the defendants might choose to make.
The allegations describe “inappropriate sexual activities with a large number of girls and young women.” The celebrity denies abusing his status to contact and form relationships with young women and teenagers in an attempt to have sex with them, according to BBC News.
Lawyers for ITN and the Guardian argued that the reported suicide risk could be mitigated and that there was no basis to block public-interest journalism. The judge had previously noted the significant public interest in the case and said it must be decided fairly on the evidence and legal arguments.
Sources: The Hollywood Reporter.