Coogan Reflects on Richard III Film Amid Libel Settlement

bitcoin Steve Coogan has expressed his satisfaction with the film The Lost King, which focuses on the remarkable discovery of Richard III's remains, stating, "the story I wanted to tell, and I am happy I did." This sentiment comes as Coogan, alongside two production companies, reached an agreement to pay "substantial damages" in order to settle a libel claim related to the film's depiction of a university academic.

The libel case was initiated by Richard Taylor, who served as the deputy registrar at the University of Leicester at the time of the historical find. Taylor took legal action against Coogan, his production company Baby Cow, and Pathe Productions due to how he was portrayed in the film, which chronicles the journey of amateur historian Philippa Langley and her quest to locate the king’s skeleton.

According to Taylor's legal representatives, the film depicted him as "devious," "weasel-like," and a "suited bean-counter." Judge Lewis had previously ruled that the portrayal suggested Taylor had “knowingly misrepresented facts to the media and the public” concerning the discovery. Furthermore, the judge noted that the film characterized Taylor as being "smug, unduly dismissive and patronising," which carried defamatory implications.

Coogan Reflects on Richard III Film Amid Libel Settlement As the case was poised to go to trial, an agreed statement was presented in court confirming that the parties had resolved the matter amicably. William Bennett, KC for Taylor, stated, "Mr. Taylor contended that the depiction of him in this untrue way in the film caused serious harm to his professional and personal reputations and caused enormous distress and embarrassment to him."

In addition to the substantial damages, the defendants also consented to cover Taylor’s legal costs. They will also include an onscreen clarification that states the portrayal of Taylor is “fictional and does not represent the actions of the real Mr. Taylor,” emphasizing that he “acted with integrity during the events portrayed.”

Technology Philippa Langley, who played a pivotal role in the discovery, expressed her intention to testify for the defendants at trial. She hoped for a judge to reach an independent conclusion on the matter; however, her ill health prevented her from doing so. After the hearing, Coogan remarked that he would have preferred for a judicial ruling on the issue, noting that it was “unfortunate” that Langley was unable to present evidence in court. He reaffirmed that the film was fundamentally about Langley’s journey, stating, "If it wasn’t for Philippa Langley, Richard III would still be lying under a car park in Leicester. It is her name that will be remembered in relation to the discovery of the lost king, long after Richard Taylor has faded into obscurity. This is the story I wanted to tell, and I am happy I did."

In The Lost King, Richard Taylor is portrayed by actor Lee Ingleby as antagonistic towards Langley, who is played by Sally Hawkins. The film illustrates Langley’s struggle to gain recognition for her role in the excavation, contrasting it with the attempts of academics to claim credit for the discovery. Coogan himself appears in the film as Langley’s husband, contributing to the narrative that showcases her relentless pursuit of the truth about Richard III.

Steve Coogan’s dedication to telling Philippa Langley’s story through The Lost King has sparked discussions about historical narratives and the importance of recognizing contributions from individuals beyond academia. The film not only highlights the significant archaeological find but also serves as a testament to the perseverance of those who seek truth in history. As the legal dispute concludes, the legacy of Richard III and the journey of his rediscovery continue to resonate in cultural discussions across the UK and beyond.