Entertainment> Celebrities

Hugh Grant wins libel case

(Reuters)
2007-04-28 08:42

Cast member Hugh Grant smiles at the world premiere of 'Music and Lyrics' at the Grauman's Chinese theatre in Hollywood, California February 7, 2007. [Reuters]

Actor Hugh Grant has accepted undisclosed libel damages over stories his relationship with Jemima Khan was destroyed by flirting with a film executive and his behavior over ex-girlfriend Elizabeth Hurley's wedding.

Grant denied the claims that appeared in the Mail on Sunday and Daily Mail, and their publisher Associated Newspapers has agreed to make a donation of damages to a cancer charity and will pay Grant's legal costs.

Grant, 46, best known for his appearance in romantic comedy "Four Weddings and a Funeral," announced he had split with his society girlfriend Khan in February, saying the separation was "amicable."

The actor was arrested earlier this week and questioned by police after a photographer accused him of attacking him with a tub of baked beans.

According to Grant's solicitor Simon Smith, one article said Grant flirted with a Warner Bros executive during late night phone calls, upsetting Khan so much that she barely ate for weeks. It said the flirtation destroyed their relationship.

In another report, the Daily Mail said Grant had planned to make a speech and act as usher at his former girlfriend Hurley's recent wedding and called his actions "a nail in the coffin" for the relationship.

A few days later an article appeared about Grant claiming he resented having to promote his films.

"The truth is that all the allegations and factual assertions are false," said Smith.

"The publication of these numerous false assertions and allegations in quick succession has caused hurt, embarrassment and distress to the claimant and damage to both his personal and professional reputation."

He said Associated Newspapers had offered to apologize to Grant, agreed not to repeat the claims and will donate undisclosed damages to charity. In return, Grant agreed to drop the legal action.