Mario Lopez Seeks Permanent Restraining Order Amid $25M Defamation Suit

Mario Lopez and Desiree Townsend, a former NFL cheerleader, are embroiled in a $25 million defamation lawsuit stemming from Lopez's reposting of a 2009 video mocking Townsend's claim of a neurological disorder allegedly caused by a flu shot. During a recent court hearing where Lopez sought to make a temporary restraining order against Townsend permanent, Lopez reportedly lost his composure, yelling at Townsend and calling her "crazy," "unhinged," and a "stalker," prompting the judge to intervene. Townsend alleges Lopez orchestrated a smear campaign to damage her reputation and has accused him of lying under oath during the court proceedings. The dispute escalated after Townsend served Lopez with a lawsuit summons at his home, an event captured on video where Lopez can be heard using profanities against her. Townsend claims Lopez's social media attack and courtroom behavior have caused her significant personal and professional harm, while Lopez contends that Townsend's actions, including sharing the serving video online, have caused chaos and fear for his family. The legal battle continues with Townsend expected to be cross-examined later in the week.