Leeds ‘Black Heathcliff’ actor ‘has psychotic disorder’

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 and was due to be sentenced today.

Howson’s lawyer, Anthony Sugare, told Leeds Magistrates’ Court he was sectioned under the Mental Health Act on April 19 for a period of up to six months so he can undergo assessment and treatment for a “psychotic disorder”.

He is being treated at a specialist unit in Leeds.

Mr Sugare said: “The reality is that the defendant is not well enough to attend court today.

“I have handed in to the court a medical statement confirming he is not well enough to attend court today.

“He is under medication for a psychotic disorder.”

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

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

The court heard in February 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.

He was initially due to be sentenced in February, but the case was adjourned after he was sectioned.

Howson was discharged from a hospital in Newcastle last month but again failed to attend court when he was due to be sentenced.

The case has been adjourned to May 28.