By Lucy Caulkett-
A High Court judge has ordered actor and filmmaker Noel Clarke to pay at least £3m of Guardian publisher’s legal fees after he lost his libel case against Guardian News and Media (GNM). This significant ruling follows a series of articles from April 2021 that contained allegations of sexual misconduct from approximately 20 women.
The issue related to allegations made by the paper that some 20 women who knew the actor and filmmaker in a professional capacity had come forward with complaints that included harassment and sexually inappropriate behaviour.
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The court found GNM’s reporting to be “substantially true,” marking a major legal defeat for Clarke. This judgment brings a new chapter to the high-profile legal battle that has been closely watched by the media industry.
Noel Clarke arrives at the Royal Courts of Justice. Pic: PA
Noel Clarke Legal Fees Mount After Libel Case Loss
The case in which saw Clarke was representing himself, a move he attributed to his legal team’s resignation due to his inability to fund them. Mrs Justice Steyn, the presiding judge, described Clarke’s case as “far-fetched” and “false.”
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The interim payment of £3m of Noel Clarke legal fees is just the start, as GNM’s lawyers estimate the total costs could exceed £6m.
Clarke, who told the court he used ChatGPT to prepare his defense, described the proposed costs order as “excessive” and is seeking an appeal. He expressed concern that such a “crushing order” would severely punish his family.
GNM’s barrister detailed the extensive effort required to defend the case, including the review of 40,000 documents and addressing what were described as “misconceived applications” and “conspiracy” allegations made by Clarke. The judge ultimately ruled that Clarke must pay the £3m of Noel Clarke legal fees within 28 days. This ruling reinforces the importance of credible journalism and the legal protections afforded to publishers reporting on matters of public interest.
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