On June 15, 2017, the jury found in favor of Rebel Wilson on every element of her claim, agreeing that articles published in Woman’s Day, the Australian Women’s Weekly and other publications in 2015 were defamatory and untrue and that some were motivated by malice. The next step is for damages to be assessed, which will take place next week and be determined by the trial judge.
- A jury ruled June 15, 2017 that multiple Australian magazines published defamatory and untrue stories about Rebel Wilson, some motivated by malice.
- The case moves next to a judge-led damages assessment, a critical phase for measuring financial and career harm.
- Testimony showed the publications cost Wilson movie roles, highlighting real business risks of unchecked media coverage.
- For public figures and companies, the case underscores how courts scrutinize media conduct and why early legal action matters.
Defamation and Malice in Published Articles
“The media has a critical role to play in our society. But freedom of the press doesn’t justify checkbook journalism or plagiarism. The jury accepted that Bauer’s magazines engaged in a calculated campaign to capitalize on Rebel Wilson’s public success. Even on the eve of trial, they published a story about her that was simply a fabrication. The jury accepted that their claims were defamatory and untrue,” said Corrs partner Richard Leder, who was the principal partner on the matter.
Impact on Rebel Wilson’s Career
“Rebel Wilson pursued her claim because the defamatory publications cost her movie roles and seriously damaged her career. With the international publicity attracted by the case and her successful outcome, her reputation and her honesty have been vindicated. The support she received during the trial was also extremely reaffirming for her.
Similar high-profile cases, such as the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard trial, illustrate the challenges public figures face when defending their reputation in court.
Corrs’ Role in Protecting High-Profile Clients
“We are delighted to have advised Rebel Wilson on this important defamation case and thrilled with the outcome. This is a clear example of Corrs’ capabilities in acting for high-profile public figures to protect their reputation and interests,” Mr. Leder added.
