Elton John has been awarded libel damages, after he sued two British newspapers over claims they made about his behaviour at his annual White Tie And Tiara charity ball.
According to the singer's lawyer The Sunday Times printed false rumours - that he had acted in a rude and arrogant manner and that he had issued an edict for guests not to address him unless spoken to - allegations that John felt had tarnished the image and reputation of his fundraising work. The accusation was originally published back in June of 2005 by the Daily Mail, who are also facing legal action over the story.
The Times, who will pay the singer an undisclosed amount, acknowledged that the item should never have been published, and immediately withdrew the allegation. The paper's lawyer, Alistair Brett, said: "As soon as the defendant found out the story was untrue - it had been picked up from another newspaper - it immediately apologised to Sir Elton and it is happy to repeat that apology here today."
Elton John has pledged the settlement to the Elton John Aids Foundation.