TV writer branded trans activist 'deeply disturbed sociopath'

GRAHAM Linehan made abusive and vindictive online posts about a transgender activist, the Father Ted creator's harassment trial heard.

- By Jordan Reynolds

In one of them, he called Sophia Brooks a “deeply disturbed sociopath”, prosecutors said.

Irish comedy writer Linehan, 57, who posed with supporters outside, including Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, 62, denies harassing the trans woman on social media and criminal damage to her mobile phone last October.

At Westminster Magistrates’ Court yesterday, District Judge Briony Clarke said the prosecution would use the activist’s “affirmed gender name”, while stating Linehan’s position was that the complainant “is male”.

Prosecutor Julia Faure Walker said Linehan’s posts were relentless, oppressive, “verbally abusive and vindictive”, and “reflected Mr Linehan’s deep disliking of Ms Brooks”.

Disruption

She said on October 11, 2024, the conference of women’s rights group LGB Alliance was disrupted by some girls inside, who released insects.