Theatre Boss Jailed for Preying on Aspiring Young Actresses
Christopher Lynch, 38, abused his role as head of a Kettering theatre group to sexually assault vulnerable teens eager to break into acting. The twisted director targeted girls aged 15 to 19 during private auditions he arranged alone between 2013 and 2017.
Groomed Teens at Church, Youth Centre and Home
Lynch ran an amateur dramatics company as a cover to exploit young hopefuls. He held one-on-one auditions in secluded spaces—a church, youth centre, and even his own home—where he carried out horrific assaults, including one rape.
He told victims the sessions would boost their acting careers, then used trust and isolation to abuse them. On one occasion, Lynch even visited a girl’s home under the pretext of discussing a play and sexually assaulted her during the visit.
Brave Victims Speak Out, Leading to Conviction
The abuse emerged after courageous victims confided in friends and family—some speaking out years later. None of the victims knew each other, confirming the widespread nature of Lynch’s crimes.
Guilty on 11 Counts, Sentencing Set
- 1 count of rape
- 4 counts of sexual activity with a child
- 3 counts of sexual assault
- 2 counts of causing/inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
- 1 count of facilitating/commissioning a child sex offence
After a 10-day trial at Northampton Crown Court, Lynch was found guilty on 11 counts, though acquitted of one sexual assault charge. Judge Rebecca Crane has adjourned sentencing until 15 November 2021, with Lynch held in custody in the meantime.
