Anna Netrebko's Gender Discrimination Lawsuit Continues

A federal judge has allowed Anna Netrebko to continue her gender discrimination lawsuit against the Metropolitan Opera, while dismissing her claims of defamation, breach of contract, and discrimination based on national origin. Judge Analisa Torres noted that the Met's February 27 Policy, which severed ties with artists supporting Putin, does not face allegations of facial discrimination, as it targets political affiliations rather than specific national identities. Netrebko argues she was treated unfairly compared to male singers who have also performed at politically sensitive events, suggesting she was targeted as a woman to exemplify the Met's commitment to Ukraine. While the judge recognized that the opera house wronged her, she ruled that Netrebko has not substantiated her defamation and contract claims. The case has not yet been scheduled for trial, and both sides have expressed varying degrees of satisfaction with the court's rulings. The American Guild of Musical Artists previously ruled the Met violated collective bargaining agreements regarding her canceled performances.