October 3, 2025
Rhodes v OPO [2015] UKSC 32
Concert pianist James Rhodes sought to publish an autobiography detailing childhood sexual abuse. His ex-wife brought proceedings on behalf of their son, claiming publication would cause the child psychological harm under the Wilkinson v Downton tort. The Supreme Court allowed the appeal, holding the tort did not extend to truthful autobiographical accounts. Facts James Rhodes, a concert pianist, wrote an autobiography entitled ‘Instrumental’ describing his childhood sexual abuse, subsequent mental health struggles, self-harm, and eventual recovery through music. His ex-wife initiated proceedings in their son’s name seeking to prevent publication of certain graphic passages, arguing they would cause psychological harm
