Richard III film makers settle defamation case with academic
A university administrator received substantial damages after a film depicted him as dismissive toward an amateur archaeologist who discovered Richard III’s remains. Richard Taylor sued the makers of The Lost King, a 2022 movie about the search for the medieval monarch’s skeleton beneath a parking lot.
Judge Lewis ruled last year that the film showed Taylor knowingly misrepresenting facts and marginalizing Philippa Langley’s contributions to the 2012 discovery. The defendants, which include actor Steve Coogan, agreed to modify the film and cover legal expenses. Taylor argued the portrayal damaged his professional standing.
Justice Collins Rice approved the settlement on Monday and said the clear statement should help Taylor move forward. His attorney called the outcome a David-versus-Goliath victory that proves individuals can challenge powerful corporations and celebrities. The case confirms that people have legal options when large entities cause harm through false portrayals.
