‘Black Heathcliff’ goes on the run after racially harassing girlfriend

James Howson, 24, who starred in the 2011 big screen adaptation of Wuthering Heights, previously pleaded guilty to the racially aggravated harassment of Shakira Ramdihal in Leeds.

He was the first black actor to play Heathcliff in the film, based on Emily Bronte’s classic novel.

Howson won the role after he attended auditions advertised on a Jobcentre wall.

Leeds Magistrates’ Court heard last month that Howson, of Haslewood Close, Leeds, shouted racist abuse at his former girlfriend after their three-year relationship ended.

The court heard that their relationship turned sour after Ms Ramdihal became pregnant.

Howson went to his ex-partner’s family home on November 18 last year and banged on the window, shouting racist threats.

Howson was initially due to be sentenced last month, but the case was adjourned after he was sentenced under the Mental Health Act.

His solicitor, Anthony Sugare, told the court today that he had been discharged from a hospital in Newcastle on Thursday.

He was due to be sentenced at Leeds Magistrates’ Court this morning but failed to attend. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.