Graham Linehan charged with criminal damage, harassment

Graham Linehan, the co-creator of 'Father Ted' and a prominent critic of the trans-rights movement, has been charged with criminal damage and harassment without violence, reportedly stemming from an incident with a trans rights activist at the Battle of Ideas festival in October 2024. Linehan admits to throwing away the activist’s phone, claiming he was defending himself and alleging the activist was harassing other attendees. He argues that the charges are part of a broader pattern of police siding with trans rights activists, a stance he reiterated on social media. The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed that Linehan is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on May 12. Linehan has stated that his advocacy for gender-critical views has significantly impacted his personal and professional life, including the loss of his career and relationships. He has expressed intent to contest the charges and further discuss his perspective during the upcoming court proceedings.