The BBC has released initial details of its Panorama investigation into David Sullivan, the billionaire co-owner of West Ham United, ahead of a documentary airing tonight. Sullivan, 77, who amassed his wealth through the pornography industry, announced his resignation as co-chairman on Saturday and intends to sue the BBC for libel.
Documentary Details
The episode, titled 'Predator: The Billionaire Football Boss,' is the result of a joint investigation by the BBC and The Times. A synopsis states: 'A joint investigation by Panorama and the Times newspaper into the behaviour of David Sullivan, who has announced he is stepping down as co-chair and director of West Ham United Football Club. Over decades, he has made millions from pornography, newspapers and football.'
Allegations and Response
Sullivan faces 'serious historical allegations' regarding his conduct. He commented: 'I believe the entire process has been fundamentally unfair and completely lacking in any due impartiality. The false allegations levelled against me have been sensationalised by the media. I will be suing the BBC for libel, along with any other media outlet that repeats any libellous allegations. None of these allegations relate to my more than 30 years in football.'
A former page three model is expected to make allegations in the documentary, claiming she was left shocked after visiting Sullivan's £7.5 million mansion in the late 1990s. She hopes to encourage others to speak out about the treatment of women in modelling and pornography industries, highlighting the vulnerability of younger women to coercion.
Sullivan's Background
Sullivan, who has co-owned West Ham for 16 years, built his fortune producing magazines and films in the 1970s and later investing in prime London property. The Panorama episode airs tonight on BBC One.
