Actor Peter Mullan came under attack when he stepped in to prevent an assault, a court has heard, after the Scottish star attempted to protect a woman from violence outside a Glasgow music venue.
The incident took place near the O2 Academy in Glasgow on 20 September last year, when Peter Mullan noticed a distressed woman being confronted by Dylan Bennet, 29. Witnesses said the actor intervened after seeing the woman in tears and learning that police had already been called.
Mullan, an award-winning actor and director known for acclaimed films such as The Magdalene Sisters and Neds, positioned himself between Bennet and the woman in an effort to stop the attack. During the confrontation, Bennet headbutted Mullan, leaving him with a head injury. He also reportedly threatened both Mullan and the woman with a glass bottle.
CCTV footage later shown in court captured Bennet running toward his partner and grabbing her by the neck, violently shaking her and restraining her for several seconds. Security staff had earlier observed Bennet in the street holding a bottle of vodka, raising concerns about his behaviour.
Prosecutor Josh Dowie told Glasgow Sheriff Court that Mullan acted instinctively after witnessing the assault. The actor reportedly warned Bennet that authorities were on their way moments before he was struck.
When police arrived at the scene, Bennet was found restrained on the ground by venue security. He later pleaded guilty to assaulting both the woman and Mullan. Sheriff Iain Fleming sentenced Bennet to 18 months in prison for the attacks.
Defence lawyer Tony Callaghan told the court that Bennet had been consuming a mix of alcohol and drugs throughout the night and had argued with his partner earlier in the evening. He added that his client expressed deep remorse for his actions.
The case highlights how a bystander’s attempt to intervene in a violent situation— even one involving a well-known public figure—can come at significant personal risk, while also underscoring the importance of swift action by security and law enforcement.
