London High Court weighs injunction request over alleged celebrity misconduct

A male celebrity, referred to in court documents as PPT, asked the High Court in London for an injunction to stop two news organisations from publishing sexual-misconduct allegations. His legal team told the court that publishing the articles would make their client "highly likely" to attempt suicide, and argued that any such reaction would stem from concerns about "trial by media" rather than wrongdoing.

The claimant denies using his fame to contact or exploit young women and teenagers. Lawyers for the Guardian News and Media and ITN countered that there is no legitimate basis to restrain "public interest journalism" and that the alleged suicide risk could be mitigated.

"This is not a case where an individual has spuriously raised ‘mental health’ concerns in the face of an impending publication that they do not wish to occur," attorney Sara Mansoori KC told the court.

"The claimant has attempted suicide twice as a result of these matters, been hospitalised for months, been the subject of involuntary detention and been examined by multiple — now more than 10 doctors," Mansoori added, noting that PPT has no intention of returning to public life.

Representing the media, attorney Gavin Millar said the outlets have gathered "numerous allegations" after a "wide-ranging and rigorous investigation" that included interviews with about 100 people. He said many women who came forward have been traumatised and suffered mental-health crises.

Mr Justice Nicklin acknowledged the case’s difficulty and importance, stating that he could not assess the truth of the allegations but must decide whether the claims can be published. He also urged the public to refrain from speculating about the celebrity’s identity.