Noel Clarke seeks £10m damages from Guardian after reports of alleged sexual misconduct

Noel Clarke seeks damages from The Guardian newspaper for more than £10 million following their investigation which alleged 15 years of misconduct, including sexual harassment and bullying, against the actor.

In April 2021, the news agency published reports in which 20 women accused the actor and writer of misconduct. The allegations included those of sexual harassment, unwanted touching or groping, sexually inappropriate comments, taking and sharing sexually explicit photos and videos without consent, and bullying.

After the initial article was published, Clarke apologized for “some of my actions”, saying it had “affected people in ways I did not intend or realize” and that he would ask help from a professional. However, he “vehemently” denied the allegations of criminal behavior or sexual misconduct.

Clarke, 47, now claims the articles had a “catastrophic” effect on his career.

In the legal documents consulted by BBC NewsTHE Doctor Who The star is seeking general damages covering harm to his reputation, as well as special damages for specific financial losses.

Specific financial losses mentioned in his claim include £1.02 million for the Sky TV show. Armored, which Clarke created and starred in with Ashley Walters. Filming for the third season of the program was suspended due to allegations of sexual misconduct and bullying against Clarke, before the program was canceled completely in May 2021.

Clarke claimed £250,000 as an estimate of anticipated royalties from the series, with the other damages coming from his acting, directing and writing roles for the project.

His ITV show Point of view is also mentioned in court documents. When the allegations came to light, the miniseries about the disappearance of a primary school teacher was airing nightly on the channel. However, the final episode was removed from the schedule, with the broadcaster saying it was “no longer appropriate” to air.

Clarke is asking £270,000 for a second series of the now-canceled series, as well as £200,000 in advance royalties.

A High Court hearing is expected to take place in October or early November to determine the exact meaning of the decision. Guardian articles. It will then be decided whether they are defamatory and whether they are statements of fact or opinions.

The Guardian does not need to file his defense until the hearing later this year. If Clarke's lawsuit is successful, the damages he is entitled to will be decided by the judge.

The independent contacted the press representatives of The Guardian for comment.

Following the claims published in the newspaper, Clarke was suspended from Bafta, of which he had been a member. His Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema award was also withdrawn, just days after receiving the award.

In March 2022, the Metropolitan Police said there was insufficient evidence against Clarke to warrant a criminal investigation.

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