Singer Cliff Richard’s case against BBC begins in High Court

LONDON — Longtime British rock icon Cliff Richard’s case against the BBC’s coverage of a police raid at his home has begun in a London court.

Richard is suing the broadcaster for its coverage of the 2014 raid, when police were investigating an alleged sex assault.

The 77-year-old singer was never charged with any crime. His lawsuit claims he suffered “profound” damage to his reputation as a result of the BBC’s coverage of the police activity at his home.

BBC says it will “vigorously” rebut Richard’s case.