Russell Simmons Sues HBO Over 'On the Record' Doc

Russell Simmons has filed a $20 million defamation lawsuit in Manhattan against HBO, Warner Bros. Discovery, and the creators of the 2020 documentary 'On the Record,' alleging they suppressed evidence that would have countered sexual misconduct claims against him. Simmons claims the filmmakers ignored statements from over 20 witnesses and nine favorable polygraph tests, and that top executives at HBO and WarnerMedia, as well as civil rights leaders and members of Congress, were urged to review this evidence. He argues Oprah Winfrey withdrew as executive producer after questioning inconsistencies in the accusations. The suit claims the film's global distribution continues to harm Simmons' reputation and seeks its removal from all platforms. The legal action faces a possible obstacle due to New York's one-year defamation statute of limitations, unless ongoing international distribution is considered 'republication.' Simmons' legal team maintains the documentary was released despite calls for further investigation.