In a notable legal development, a judge has approved a limited discovery motion filed by producer Amanda Ghost regarding Rebel Wilson’s film “The Deb.” This ruling comes amidst an ongoing dispute involving defamation claims against Wilson, who is also the film’s director. The court’s decision, issued on Thursday, allows Ghost to proceed with specific discovery actions while Wilson contests the allegations against her.
Background of the Case
The legal conflict began in July 2024 when Ghost, along with fellow producers Gregor Cameron and Vince Holden, filed a defamation suit against Wilson in Los Angeles Superior Court. The allegations stem from Wilson’s assertions to her 11 million Instagram followers, claiming that the producers engaged in theft, bullying, and sexual misconduct connected to “The Deb.”
Judge’s Ruling on Discovery
Judge Thomas D. Long determined that Ghost is entitled to some degree of discovery, despite Wilson’s objections based on her anti-SLAPP motion—which aims to protect individuals from retaliatory lawsuits. Wilson argued that her motion should pause discovery until a decision was made. However, the judge’s ruling allows Ghost to collect evidence to challenge Wilson’s dismissal efforts.
- Judge Thomas D. Long ruled on Thursday.
- Amanda Ghost filed her motion to challenge Wilson’s anti-SLAPP dismissal.
- Wilson claims that her First Amendment rights protect her declarations in the case.
Details of the Discovery Motion
Ghost sought to depose both Wilson and publicist Melissa Nathan to gather information pertinent to her assertions. However, the court denied her request to question them directly. Instead, Ghost’s legal team can depose Katie Case, a former employee of Nathan, who has reportedly given testimony related to the alleged defamatory statements in separate litigation in New York.
Context of the Allegations
Wilson has countersued the producers, highlighting what she describes as a “troubling pattern” of misconduct, including inflated film budgets and mismanagement. The actress insists she did not create or authorize the allegedly defamatory content and is defending her statements under the protection of California’s anti-SLAPP statute.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Wilson’s team contends that discovery holds are meant to shield individuals from unnecessary burdens until substantial causes are proven. They maintain that Wilson’s declarations assert she had no involvement with the disputed materials, supporting her case against the defamation claims.
The legal proceedings continue to evolve, with Wilson’s dismissal motion still under appeal following an adverse ruling in November 2024. The evolving dynamics of this case reflect broader issues regarding free speech, accountability, and the responsibilities of public figures in the digital age.
