Rebel Wilson's Defamation Case Against Producers Advances

Rebel Wilson's attempt to dismiss a defamation lawsuit filed by the producers of her film The Deb was denied by Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Thomas D. Long. The lawsuit stems from accusations Wilson made against producers Amanda Ghost, Gregor Cameron, and Vince Holden, alleging embezzlement and sexual harassment in an Instagram video. The judge ruled that Wilson's statements did not qualify as protected speech under California's anti-SLAPP statute as they were deemed to accuse the producers of criminal conduct. Wilson's legal team plans to appeal the decision, arguing that her claims are in the public interest. The ongoing legal battle may delay the release of The Deb, which was initially set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. The producers have portrayed Wilson's allegations as damaging and unfounded, asserting that they are legitimate professionals with a valid legal claim against her.