High Court rejects celebrity's request to block media reports on alleged misconduct

A London High Court judge has refused a former celebrity's request for an injunction that would have prevented two media organisations from publishing allegations that he abused his power and status to contact young women for inappropriate sexual activities. The claimant, who remains unnamed pending any appeal, argued that publication could lead to a fatal outcome, citing two prior suicide attempts.

The court ruled that the injunction request was dismissed, noting that the decision does not constitute a judgment on the truth of the allegations. "The claimant’s claim for an injunction was dismissed," the judge wrote, adding that the ruling does not amount to approval of any future publication.

Representing the claimant, Sara Mansoori KC said the allegations were denied and that publishing them could have a potentially fatal impact. "The only reason they would not be fatal is because the claimant would be locked up and prevented from his desire to end his life," she told the court.

Gavin Millar KC, counsel for Independent Television News and Guardian News and Media, argued that judges should not assess the causes of suicidal ideation, which are matters for medical professionals. He also stated that the proposed reporting would contribute to a public debate about men using their power to commit misconduct against women.