Noel Clarke arrested as police raid ‘Doctor Who’ star’s London home

British actor Noel Clarke, best known for his role in Doctor Who, was arrested on Thursday as police searched his London home. According to reports, officers with the Metropolitan Police were seen leaving his Kensington property carrying boxes. Clarke was taken into custody and questioned before being released later the same day. The specific reason for his arrest has not been disclosed, but sources confirm that an investigation into the actor began on 1 September and is being overseen by the central specialist crime command.

The arrest comes only weeks after Clarke suffered a major legal defeat. In August, he lost a high-profile libel case against The Guardian, which had published articles in 2021 alleging misconduct from more than 20 women who had worked with him. Clarke denied the claims, but after a six-week trial he was ordered to pay £3 million in legal costs. Over a dozen women testified during the proceedings, describing personal experiences of inappropriate behaviour by the actor.

Guardian News and Media’s editor-in-chief Katharine Viner welcomed the judgment at the time, calling it a victory for those who had spoken out. In a statement, she praised the women for their bravery in testifying despite what she described as bullying and intimidation. Clarke, meanwhile, told the court that he had lost his work, his savings, his legal team, and much of his health as a result of the controversy.

Clarke has long been considered a significant figure in British television and film. He gained recognition for his role as Mickey Smith in Doctor Who and later built a career as a writer, director, and producer. However, the fallout from the misconduct allegations has overshadowed his achievements, with projects cancelled and his public image under sustained scrutiny.

For now, authorities have not commented further on the details of Thursday’s arrest or the ongoing investigation. Clarke’s representatives have also not issued a statement. The situation leaves questions about the actor’s future, as legal battles and public controversy continue to dominate his career.