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Anonymous celebrity in sexual assault scandal could now be named after missing appeal deadline
An unnamed British celebrity could be identified after missing the deadline to appeal a High Court decision concerning reporting on sexual misconduct allegations against him. The case concerns whether the Guardian and ITN can publish articles about the allegations, which the man denies; the judge said the reporting was in the public interest and an injunction would interfere with freedom of expression.
The man’s appeal was due by 4.30 pm on Monday, but he will remain anonymous until the media organisations publish his name. Their investigation involved interviews with more than 100 people and material from around 30 additional sources, including emails, messages and documents. The man’s lawyers cited his serious mental health problems and argued that publication would violate his privacy, while the outlets’ lawyers said alleged victims had also suffered mental health difficulties.
In short
- A British celebrity missed the deadline to appeal a ruling on anonymity.
- He denies sexual misconduct allegations being investigated by the Guardian and ITN.
- The judge said reporting was in the public interest.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The outlets can argue that reporting on serious misconduct allegations, supported by extensive interviews and documents, serves the public interest, and that an injunction would unjustifiably restrict freedom of expression. Naming the subject may also allow the public to assess the reporting and its implications, particularly if the appeal deadline has passed.
The case against
The man can argue that allegations remain allegations and that identifying him before they are tested could cause lasting reputational and personal harm. Given the serious mental health problems cited by his lawyers, privacy may warrant protection; the public interest in reporting could potentially be served without publishing his name.