Steve Coogan Settles Libel Case Over “The Lost King” Film Portrayal

Actor and comedian Steve Coogan has settled a high-profile libel claim. The case was brought against him and production companies by a university official. It concerned the 2022 film “The Lost King.”

The lawsuit was filed by Richard Taylor, a former deputy registrar at the University of Leicester. He claimed his portrayal in the film was defamatory and misogynistic. A judge had previously ruled the depiction could be seen as defamatory, setting the stage for a trial.

Substantial Damages Awarded in Court Ruling

The settlement was announced in a London court on Monday. Richard Taylor was successful in his claim and will receive substantial damages. The defendants included Coogan, Baby Cow, and Pathé Productions.

According to BBC News, Taylor expressed relief outside the court. He stated the ruling established the film’s portrayal was baseless. He also said it distorted the true story of the search for King Richard III’s remains.

Coogan’s Response and Film’s Legacy

Following the ruling, Steve Coogan issued a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. He emphasized that the focus should remain on Philippa Langley’s achievements. Langley was the researcher who spearheaded the successful search for the king’s skeleton.

Coogan stated it was unfortunate that Langley’s ill health prevented her evidence from being heard. He firmly credited her with instigating the search, insisting on the dig location, and raising most of the funds. He concluded that her name would be remembered long after Taylor’s.

The settlement concludes a significant legal challenge for the filmmakers. The case highlights the delicate balance between dramatic storytelling and factual accuracy. The Steve Coogan libel case serves as a notable example for the film industry.

Dropping this nugget your way

Q1: What was the libel case against Steve Coogan about?

The case was filed by Richard Taylor, a University of Leicester official. He sued over his portrayal in the film “The Lost King,” which he argued was defamatory. A judge agreed the film presented him as knowingly misrepresenting facts.

Q2: Who is Richard Taylor in the story of Richard III?

Richard Taylor was the deputy registrar at the University of Leicester during the search. The film depicted him as initially dismissive of Philippa Langley’s efforts. He argued this characterization was inaccurate and damaging.

Q3: What changes will be made to “The Lost King” film?

Steve Coogan confirmed a new front card will be added. It will state the film is “PHILIPPA LANGLEY’S STORY.” This change aims to refocus the narrative on her central role in the discovery.

Q4: How did the court rule on the libel claim?

The court ruled in favor of Richard Taylor. He was awarded substantial damages as part of the settlement. The case was resolved before going to a full trial.

Q5: What was Steve Coogan’s main defense?

Coogan stood by the film’s intention to tell Philippa Langley’s story. He expressed regret that her evidence could not be presented in court. He firmly believes history will remember her, not Taylor, for the discovery.