A major UK tabloid has settled a libel case after falsely linking an actor to extremism. The Sun issued an apology, paid damages, and agreed not to repeat the allegations. The case highlights the risks of inaccurate reporting.
Media organizations face significant legal and reputational risks when publishing unverified claims about public figures. The Sun has agreed to pay substantial libel damages to actor Qasim Akhtar after the newspaper falsely accused him of links to Islamic extremism, including allegations of firearms training in Pakistan and association with radical clerics.
The disputed claims appeared in both print and online editions of The Sun in November 2025. Akhtar, known for his roles in Shameless and Coronation Street, said the allegations had a severe impact on his reputation, family, and personal safety. He filed a defamation lawsuit against News Group Newspapers in March 2026, represented by Taylor Hampton solicitors.
The settlement, reached on June 25, 2026, required The Sun to publish a formal apology, pay damages and legal fees, and commit not to repeat the allegations. The Sun acknowledged that the claims were entirely false, stating that Akhtar had never endorsed or supported extremism or violence, nor had he moved to Pakistan or undergone firearms training.
In a public statement, Akhtar described the past six months as extremely difficult, emphasizing the personal and professional harm caused by the false reporting. He expressed forgiveness toward The Sun and the journalist involved, citing his religious beliefs and the importance of ethical resolution.
Akhtar's lawyer, Daniel Taylor, said the article was deeply damaging and should never have been published, noting that the allegations unfairly targeted Akhtar based on his religion and identity. Taylor added that the case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of reckless reporting.
The Sun's parent company, News Group Newspapers, has now formally accepted responsibility for the false allegations and issued a full apology as part of the settlement.
