Hollywood actor Rebel Wilson has won a defamation case against her co-star Charlotte MacInnes, who had sued Wilson over a series of social media posts. The Federal Court found that MacInnes failed to establish that the publications caused or were likely to cause serious harm.
MacInnes, 28, who starred in Wilson's directorial debut film "The Deb," claimed Wilson defamed her by implying she was a liar and a sellout who retracted a sexual harassment complaint to advance her career. The posts alleged that MacInnes confided in Wilson that she was uncomfortable when the film's co-producer, Amanda Ghost, asked to share a bath. MacInnes denied making or retracting a complaint, stating she had not been uncomfortable during the shared bath in swimwear after Ghost experienced a medical episode in September 2023.
Justice Elizabeth Raper ruled in favor of Wilson two months after the conclusion of the court proceedings. As a result of the decision, MacInnes has been ordered to pay Wilson's legal costs.
Wilson, who did not attend the judgment, released a statement expressing gratitude for the court's careful consideration of the evidence. "This has been a long process and throughout I have tried to stay grounded in my values and what I believed was right," Wilson stated. "I'm thankful that process has now reached its conclusion." She added that she is proud to continue making films and to "live my life standing up for what I believe is right."
During the hearing, MacInnes' barrister Sue Chrysanthou SC accused Wilson of dishonesty and a "complete revision of history," suggesting Wilson's own witnesses had discredited her. However, Wilson repeatedly denied fabricating the complaint or using it for leverage in disputes with co-producers over the film's budget and writing credit, asserting, "I am known as a truth-teller."
Wilson's barrister, David Sibtain SC, argued that MacInnes had a motive to lie and had given false evidence under oath, aiming to continue her career advancement. He contended that MacInnes had received a lead role in a stage production and a six-figure record deal linked to Ms. Ghost, and sought to ensure her relationship with the producer remained beneficial.
MacInnes' legal team has confirmed that an appeal will likely be lodged shortly on behalf of their client. MacInnes had sought aggravated damages for alleged anxiety and a period without work attributed to Wilson's social media posts.
