Graham Linehan, the creator of Father Ted and The IT Crowd, was arrested at Heathrow Airport on Monday after flying in from Arizona. The 57-year-old Irish writer was intercepted by five armed officers and questioned over three social media posts on transgender issues published on X in April.
Linehan said the posts related to him challenging a 'trans-identified male' in a 'female-only space'. He was taken to a cell and later to hospital after his blood pressure spiked, before being released on bail. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest on suspicion of inciting violence, stating that the firearms were not drawn or used.
The arrest has sparked backlash from figures including author JK Rowling and opposition politicians. Rowling described it as 'totalitarianism', while tech billionaire Elon Musk reposted her comment, adding 'Police state'. Former shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick called it 'ridiculous and a complete waste of police time'.
Downing Street declined to comment directly, stating it was an operational matter for the police. The prime minister's spokesperson rejected claims of totalitarianism, emphasising priorities on antisocial behaviour and violent crime.
