The Lost King: Settlement Reached

In my previous article (The Lost King – Gardner Leader), I examined the libel proceedings brought by Richard Taylor, against Steve Coogan (and others) arising from the depiction of Mr Taylor, in the film, the Lost King (2022).

That article explained that, at a trial of preliminary issue on meaning, the Court found that the film was defamatory of Mr Taylor. It also notes that trials of preliminary issue can be decisive of a claim at a very early stage, and can encourage settlement, which is precisely what has happened in this case, a little over a year after the meaning judgment.

At a hearing at the High Court in October 2025, it was confirmed that a settlement had been reached between the parties. Although the details of the settlement are confidential, it appears that matters have been resolved without admission of liability and that the Defendants have paid damages and costs to Mr Taylor.