Skip to content

Man accused of homophobic abuse of Matt Lucas

PA Media Ayub Dirie dressed in black trousers and black hooded jacket clutches a red coffee cupPA Media
Ayub Dirie is also charged with racially aggravated harassment

A man has appeared in court accused of verbally abusing Matt Lucas while the comedian was on his way to a football match.

Ayub Dirie, 32, is alleged to have used homophobic language towards him in Islington, north London, on 27 October. Mr Lucas was heading to the Emirates Stadium to see Arsenal play Liverpool at the time.

The defendant, of Plimsoll Road, Islington, spoke only to confirm his name and address at a short hearing at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court.

Mr Dirie, who wore a black coat in the dock, is also accused of racially aggravated harassment and using abusive words towards two police officers.

He was granted unconditional bail and is due to appear at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 30 January.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected]