Former pop star Gary Glitter, whose real name is Paul Gadd, pleaded not guilty to a series of historic child sex abuse charges during a hearing at London’s Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday. The 82-year-old musician appeared via videolink from HMP Channings Wood in Devon, denying allegations related to offences that allegedly took place nearly 50 years ago.
Glitter faces eight charges including four counts of indecent assault, two of indecency with a child, and two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13. The alleged offences reportedly occurred between March 1978 and late 1981 at a residence in the Kensington area of West London. The complainant, now in her mid-50s, was between eight and 11 years old during the period covered by the indictment. Prosecutors say Glitter gave the girl chocolate and abused her on at least 20 occasions, including at least five instances of sexual intercourse.
Judge Tony Baumgartner, the Recorder of Westminster, presided over the brief hearing and confirmed that Glitter will remain in custody ahead of his trial. The judge scheduled a three-week trial to begin on November 22, 2027, with a case management hearing set for December this year. Glitter opted for a later trial date to ensure legal representation by barrister Lisa Wilding KC.
During the hearing, Glitter, who wore a hat and jacket and occasionally sipped a drink, pleaded “not guilty” to all charges, responding “absolutely not guilty” to two of the counts. He remained seated quietly throughout the proceeding.
The complainant first reported the allegations to police in January 2025. Police investigations led to Glitter’s interview and subsequent charging authorization by the Crown Prosecution Service in mid-2026. Scotland Yard has confirmed that specialist officers are providing support to the woman.
Gary Glitter rose to fame in the early 1970s as a prominent figure in the glam-rock movement, selling some 18 million records over five years. He is widely known for hits such as “Rock and Roll (Parts 1 and 2)” and “I’m the Leader of the Gang (I Am).” His 1972 track “Rock and Roll (Part 2)” remains a popular feature at sporting events, particularly in the United States.
Under British law, the identity of alleged victims in such cases is protected by lifelong anonymity, and media reporting is restricted to avoid potential identification. Glitter’s appearance at court marked an important procedural step in the long-running investigation into historical sexual abuse allegations against the former entertainer.