Half-Brother of Hollywood Star James McAvoy Admits to Violent Prison Assault
The half-brother of renowned Hollywood actor James McAvoy has entered a guilty plea for a brutal attack on another inmate during prison visiting hours. Donald McAvoy, aged 36, carried out the assault at HMP Saughton in Scotland, an incident that was fully recorded by security cameras.
Disturbing CCTV Footage Captures the Attack
On October 21, 2025, as visiting time was concluding at the prison, Donald McAvoy was seen pulling out a concealed bladed weapon and launching himself at fellow prisoner Colin Lindsay. The CCTV footage clearly shows McAvoy slashing Lindsay across the face, causing severe injuries. Prison staff quickly intervened to restrain McAvoy, who was reportedly heard saying, "I done what I needed to do" to other prisoners and their families present in the visiting area.
Prosecutor Alexandria Kirk detailed the events, noting that young children were in the vicinity when the attack occurred. She explained that after visiting hours ended, prisoners were moving toward the exit while visitors remained seated. It was at this moment that McAvoy initiated the assault, with other inmates assisting the victim as McAvoy backed away.
Legal Proceedings and Background of the Accused
During a hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh, Judge Norman McFadyen viewed the distressing footage. McAvoy, who appeared via video link from Drumchapel, Glasgow, admitted to assaulting Mr. Lindsay with a bladed implement, resulting in severe injury, permanent disfigurement, and danger to his life. The court learned that authorities have been unable to establish a motive for the attack.
Donald McAvoy was already serving a "roll-up" sentence of five years and 10 months for multiple offences, including a road-rage attack on a 57-year-old grandfather. His release was originally scheduled for March 2025, but it was extended by an additional 15 months after he confessed to possessing illegal razor blades and a prohibited mobile phone SIM card in his cell at Glenochil Prison in Clackmannanshire.
Family Connections and Future Sentencing
McAvoy shares his father, James senior, with actor James McAvoy, known for roles in X-Men and His Dark Materials. However, the two half-brothers were raised separately and are believed to have never met. During the proceedings, McAvoy's solicitor, Ian Sievwright, revealed that his client had inherited a sizeable legacy from his late father's estate, which might provide financial resources to avoid criminality upon release.
Sievwright added that McAvoy, who has over 40 prior convictions including violent offences, is determined to lead a pro-social lifestyle for the sake of his daughter once he leaves prison. The victim, Colin Lindsay, required medical attention and was returned to prison after treatment. Defence advocate Kenneth Cloggie indicated he would address the court after background reports on McAvoy's character are received.
Judge McFadyen has deferred sentencing until later this year, allowing time for the preparation of these reports. The case continues to highlight serious concerns about violence within prison facilities and the complex backgrounds of those involved.
