Sir Oliver Popplewell, who passed away at the age of 96, was a prominent figure in the legal world. He made headlines for his role in a libel case involving Conservative MP Jonathan Aitken and The Guardian newspaper. As a high court judge, Popplewell ruled that the case should not go before a jury due to the complexity of the paperwork involved. This decision was met with criticism from The Guardian’s legal team, but it was later supported by the court of appeal.
During the trial, The Guardian reporters uncovered new evidence that exposed Aitken’s lies, leading to the collapse of his libel action. Popplewell’s reputation as a fair and impartial judge was solidified by his handling of the case, despite initial suspicions that he might be biased. Aitken’s subsequent imprisonment for perjury only served to reinforce Popplewell’s credibility.
Popplewell’s judicial career was marked by several high-profile cases, including a defamation case involving allegations of performance-enhancing drugs in sports. His dedication to upholding the law and seeking the truth earned him both praise and criticism from the public and the media. Despite facing controversy, Popplewell remained steadfast in his commitment to justice.
Outside of the courtroom, Popplewell was known for his love of cricket and his involvement in various social causes. He provided character witness for his godson, Stephen Fry, during a trial in the 1970s and later pursued a second academic career after retiring from the bench. His contributions to the legal and academic fields were recognized by his peers and colleagues.
In his personal life, Popplewell was a devoted husband and father. He married twice and had four sons, who survive him along with his second wife, Dame Elizabeth Gloster. Popplewell’s legacy as a respected judge, scholar, and family man will undoubtedly endure for years to come.
