'Father Ted' Creator Graham Linehan Cleared of Criminal Damage in UK Appeal
Graham Linehan's Appeal and Acquittal
Background of the Case
LONDON, May 1 (Reuters) - Graham Linehan, the Irish co-creator of hit British TV comedy show "Father Ted", was on Friday cleared on appeal of criminal damage of a trans woman's mobile phone, British media reported.
Linehan's Public Stance and Controversy
Linehan, 57, a vocal critic of transgender activism in recent years, has found himself at the centre of a heated culture war debate in Britain on the issue.
Reactions from Activists and Supporters
Trans activists say his views cause offence while Linehan's supporters argue campaigners are trying to silence criticism and free speech.
Details of the Incident and Legal Proceedings
Last year, Linehan was found guilty of causing criminal damage following an incident at a conference in October 2024 involving then 17-year-old trans woman Sophia Brooks, but he was cleared of harassing her.
Linehan appealed against his criminal damage conviction at London's Southwark Crown Court and was found not guilty on Friday, with Sky News reporting that a judge ruled they could not be sure the damage to Brooks' phone was caused by Linehan.
Linehan's Career Highlights
"Father Ted" brought Linehan success in Britain in the 1990s, and he also co-created "The IT Crowd", a critically acclaimed sitcom.
(Reporting by Sam Tobin; Editing by Toby Chopra)
