Graham Linehan, co-creator of the acclaimed sitcom Father Ted, has entered a not guilty plea to charges of harassment and criminal damage. The charges involve a transgender woman.
The writer, also known for his work on The IT Crowd and Black Books, appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Monday.
Linehan, 56, denied two charges: one of harassing 18-year-old transgender activist Sophia Brooks via social media in October, and a second charge of damaging Ms. Brooks’ phone during the “Battle of Ideas” conference in London that same month, where he was a speaker.
The case is scheduled for trial in September. Linehan confirmed his identity and plea to the court.
Following the proceedings, Linehan stated he had spent six years advocating for “the rights of women and children,” during which he faced significant abuse and threats.
Linehan is required to return to court for trial on September 4th.
The harassment charge alleges abusive social media posts between October 11th and 27th, while the damage charge relates to a phone valued at £369.
He was granted bail under the condition that he has no direct or indirect contact with the complainant.