Alex Smith v News Group Newspapers: Hypnotism, Journalism, Justice & A Fake Sheikh

At the intriguing intersection of hypnotism, journalism and justice lies the enigmatic figure of Alex Smith, better known by his performer name of Jonathan Royle. Regarded both as a controversial hypnotist and a vocal critic of media practices, Royle's life story is peppered with scandal, legal battles and eye-opening revelations about the ethics of journalism. This article delves deep into the multifaceted world of Jonathan Royle, his connection to the infamous 'Fake Sheikh', Mazher Mahmood and intertwinings with well-known figures such as The Duke of Sussex, actor Hugh Grant, former MP Tom Watson and singer Tulisa. They all contribute to the ongoing conversation about justice and media integrity.

Who Is Jonathan Royle?

Jonathan Royle is a British hypnotist known for his flamboyant performances and outspoken nature. It was back in the 1990s that I studied Royle's hypnotic techniques. I've still got the certificates. His career in hypnotism began in his teenage years, transitioning from travelling circus child clown to a full-blown hypnotist with television appearances on shows such as The Word and Kilroy. His live shows captivated audiences. The ability to mesmerise crowds with hypnotic techniques propelled him into the limelight. However, along with fame came controversy, particularly surrounding his views on how the media reports on sensational events and legal matters. But why?

Who is Jonathan Royle?

Royle's work straddles the fine line between entertainment and serious discussions on ethics in journalism. His assertions challenge audiences to think critically about the stories they consume and the motives behind media portrayals.

The Fake Sheikh Scandal

Royle's connection to the Fake Sheikh saga pivots around the well-known figure of Mazher Mahmood, a tabloid reporter infamous for his undercover stings that ensnared various celebrities in scandalous situations. One such sting victim was Royle, leading to a criminal conviction. Royle is due for a Criminal Cases Review Commission hearing in February 2026.

Royle has openly criticised Mahmood's methods, arguing that such sensationalist reporting often leads to unjust accusations and wrongful convictions.

The issue garnered public attention, especially when Mahmood was implicated in scandals that questioned the integrity of his journalism. Jonathan Royle emerged as a vocal adversary of the press, utilising his platform to spotlight such injustices. This is where the intertwining of hypnotism and journalism becomes fascinating, as Royle's tricks of mental influence contrast sharply with the manipulative tactics of journalists like Mahmood.

Prosecuted and convicted

The narrative transitions from hypnotism's apparent efficacy in entertainment to its potential implications in understanding how media can dictate public perception through sensationalism.

It's a fascinating story and one that I asked Jonathan to discuss for the purpose of this article. You can watch the video below. There are a few short slides of intro before Jonathan begins his response to my questions.

An Interview With Alex Smith aka Jonathan Royle

Hypnotism in the Public Eye

Royle’s career is not solely defined by the controversies with the media. He is also a noted educator in the realm of hypnotherapy, emphasising therapeutic practices and the usefulness of hypnotism in personal development. His mission includes debunking myths surrounding hypnotism, demonstrating that it is not magic but a psychological technique that can bring transformative change.

However, his outspoken personality has drawn criticism, including allegations of unprofessional conduct and impropriety. Royle hasn’t shied away from his legal battles, recounting experiences that reflect the complexities of revenge stories in the realm of journalism. He argued that the media often distorts the truth, leading to public misconceptions about his character and career.

Royle, seen here to the right of actor Hugh Grant, now campaigns on issues of media and journalistic conduct

Through public campaigns, public appearances and social media engagement, Royle consistently advocates for transparency and fairness in how justice systems interact with media narratives.

A Call for Justice

At the heart of Royle's narrative is a strong appeal for justice, especially for those wrongfully accused due to dubious media tactics. His legal endeavours against those who perpetuate misinformation highlight the importance of accountability. Royle’s battles serve as a clarion call for change, demanding more ethical standards in journalism and stricter regulation of media practices.

This quest for justice positions Royle uniquely not only in the hypnotism scene but also in the broader context of public discourse surrounding journalism ethics. He insists that journalists should bear responsibility for their reporting, particularly when it impacts lives irreparably as seen in some of the repercussions from the Fake Sheikh scandal.

The Impact of Royle’s Critique

Jonathan Royle's critiques serve as a reminder to the public - consumers of news - to approach media narratives with scepticism and an understanding of potential bias. His attempts to reveal the flaws in the system often put him at odds with powerful figures in journalism.

In doing so, Royle has catalysed a larger conversation about the intersection of hypnotism, journalism and justice. His life story exemplifies the struggle against misinformation and highlights how individuals can use their experiences to advocate for the rights of the falsely accused.

This narrative could have also been enhanced through statistical data, but the overarching themes remain potent: media must think twice before reporting and recognise the implications their narratives can have on justice.

Final Thoughts

Through the multifarious layers of Jonathan Royle’s life, we can garner a deeper understanding of how journalism and justice intertwine. The tale of the Fake Sheikh serves not just as an example of media malpractice, but as a catalyst for significant debate regarding the power of words and their impact on human lives.

Royle’s journey encourages diligent examination of the society we inhabit, urging a collective responsibility in demanding accountability from those charged with the duty of informing the public. Those interested in the complexities of media, law, and even the performance arts will find the discourse surrounding Jonathan Royle rich with lessons and warnings for the future of journalism.

With thanks to Alex Smith for his co-operation and use of photographs for this article.