Anna Friel has spoken of feeling “threatened” and fearful throughout a three-year stalking ordeal. The 49-year-old actress was targeted by Phil Appleton, 71, who repeatedly appeared at her home, mouthed “I love you” at her security cameras, and left gifts including a ring.
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In a victim impact statement, reported by The Sun, Friel said: “As a woman in the acting industry where there have been a lot of cases of stalking, it still shocked me when it happened to me. This case made me feel very threatened and as though I have to look over my shoulder all the time.” Her ordeal began after meeting Appleton during a walk with her daughter, when she assumed they had previously worked together due to his familiar manner.
Friel gave him her email address and he began sending frequent messages, some declaring his love and his wish to marry her. She chose not to respond, hoping the contact would cease, but the messages continued. At his court hearing, his lawyer James Bloomer KC said Appleton felt “unreserved apology and shame” for his actions and wanted to return to the “law-abiding life he has lived all these years.”
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Appleton was handed a 15-year restraining order and a two-year community order. He has been banned from approaching, following, or contacting Friel or her daughter, and must also avoid the area surrounding her home in Windsor.
