Irish comedy writer Graham Linehan, best known for co-creating the sitcoms Father Ted and The IT Crowd, has been arrested in London over social media posts concerning transgender people.
The 57-year-old was detained at Heathrow Airport on suspicion of inciting violence through three posts on X.
According to police, his comments suggested physical responses against transgender women entering female-only spaces.
He was later released on bail under conditions that include a temporary ban on using the platform.
Linehan rose to fame in the 1990s and 2000s as one of the UK and Ireland’s most successful comedy writers, with his shows winning multiple awards and critical acclaim.
In recent years, however, he has become a polarising figure for his outspoken criticism of transgender activism, which has led to canceled projects, strained industry ties, and bans from online platforms.
Following his arrest, Linehan condemned the move as heavy-handed and announced plans to sue the Metropolitan Police for wrongful arrest, with support from the Free Speech Union.
His legal team argues that restricting him from social media amounts to an unlawful gag order during a time of heated public debate.
The arrest has triggered widespread debate across Britain. Author J.K. Rowling described the detention as authoritarian, while Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said current laws leave officers in an “impossible position,” forced to interpret what constitutes harmful speech online.
Senior officials have called for a review of the Communications Act 2003, which underpins prosecutions related to online content.
Supporters of Linehan warn that Britain risks sliding toward censorship of unpopular views, while critics argue that unchecked rhetoric can fuel hostility against vulnerable communities.
The case has quickly become a flashpoint in the broader battle over free speech, online regulation, and cultural divisions in the UK.