Paul Gallagher, Brother of Liam and Noel, Charged With Rape and Sexual Offences
LONDON — Paul Gallagher, the older brother of Oasis frontmen Liam and Noel Gallagher, has been charged with a series of serious criminal offences, including rape, sexual assault, and coercive control. The 59-year-old DJ and photographer from East Finchley, North London, will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 27.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the charges stem from incidents alleged to have taken place between 2022 and 2024. A woman involved in the case is currently being supported by specially trained officers, the force confirmed.
In a statement released by police, Paul Gallagher is accused of:
- Rape
- Coercive and controlling behaviour
- Three counts of sexual assault
- Three counts of intentional strangulation
- Two counts of making a threat to kill
- One count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH)
The investigation began in early 2024, following the woman’s allegations. The case has attracted significant public attention due to the Gallagher family’s prominence in British music and culture.
Paul Gallagher is the eldest of the Gallagher siblings and has often remained in the public eye as a music industry figure and cultural commentator. Unlike his famous younger brothers, Paul has pursued a career behind the scenes, working as a DJ, photographer, and author.
The charges come just days after the conclusion of the Oasis Live ’25 tour in London — a nostalgic concert event celebrating the 25th anniversary of the band’s landmark performances. The tour continues with upcoming shows in Edinburgh and Dublin.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated:
“A man has been charged with numerous offences — including rape, coercive control, and sexual assault. Paul Gallagher, 59, of East Finchley, has been charged with rape, coercive and controlling behaviour, three counts of sexual assault, three counts of intentional strangulation, two counts of making a threat to kill, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The offences are reported to have taken place between 2022–2024. The charges follow an investigation which commenced in 2024. A woman is being supported by specially-trained officers.”
Gallagher has denied all allegations made against him. In a statement released through his legal team, he emphasized his cooperation with law enforcement and his intention to clear his name in court.
“Our client, Paul Gallagher, has been charged with a number of offences all relating to a single complainant. Mr Gallagher has consistently engaged with the police throughout their investigation and always strongly denied the allegations made against him. He looks forward to clearing his name, but as there are now ongoing legal proceedings our client is unable to comment further.”
Legal experts note that the charges are extremely serious, especially the inclusion of intentional strangulation, a newly categorized offence under UK law that highlights the dangers of non-fatal strangulation in domestic abuse cases.
No comment has been made publicly by Liam or Noel Gallagher regarding the case.
Gallagher is expected to enter a plea during his first court appearance on August 27, where a magistrate will determine whether the case will be transferred to a higher court for trial.
As the legal process unfolds, both police and legal representatives have urged the public to avoid speculation, reminding observers that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
