Father Ted Creator Linehan Denies Harassment in Trans Activist Trial London

Graham Linehan, the 57-year-old Irish comedy writer known for Father Ted, is on trial at Westminster Magistrates' Court accused of harassing trans woman Sophia Brooks through a series of social media posts and a physical altercation. Linehan described Brooks with derogatory terms such as 'deeply disturbed sociopath' and 'groomer,' and linked her to a protest at an LGB Alliance conference despite no evidence of her involvement. Brooks testified that Linehan forcibly took her phone and threw it into the road during a confrontation outside a conference, while Linehan claims his actions were reflexive and that his online posts were in the public interest as a journalist exposing trans activism. The court heard that Brooks uses derogatory language herself online, and the judge ruled that neither party's use of language would be policed during proceedings. Prosecutors characterized Linehan's posts as relentless, verbally abusive, and vindictive, reflecting his deep dislike of Brooks, who considers the LGB Alliance a hate group advocating against trans rights. Linehan denies the harassment charges and insists his commentary is protected free speech, supported by some free speech campaigners, amid broader tensions around transgender rights and activism.