The court denied the request by the defense of actor Johnny Depp, 58, to reject the defamation lawsuit of US$ 100 million (about R$ 481 million) brought by ex-wife Amber Heard, 36. She alleges that the actor led a campaign to discredit her by saying her allegations are “false and “hoax”, damaging her career and reputation. Both are sued for defamation.
With the jurors absent, the actor’s attorney, Ben Chew, told the Virginia courthouse that the basis of Heard’s challenge – three public statements made by Depp’s lawyer, Adam Waldman, in 2020 cannot be directly established. linked to the actor having “participated” or “authorized” the comments.
Chew also argued that Heard had shown no real malice, claiming that Waldman had investigated and believed his “hoax” comments to be true. Waldman testified in the case but invoked attorney-client privilege of confidentiality in most questions. He did not deny making the comments.
Heard’s attorney, Ben Rottenborn, argued that there is no basis for rejecting the counter-suit and that he should stand. “Evidence shows that not only was Mr. Waldman Mr. Depp’s agent, but that the two conspired to falsely accuse Amber of creating a hoax and falsifying evidence that they believe supports her theory and what they wanted to achieve.”
Judge Penney Azcarate then read her ruling on the matter, denying the motion to dismiss Heard’s lawsuit. “The jury may infer that Mr. Waldman made these specific statements to a third party to serve the plaintiff. [Depp] when portraying the defendant [Heard] as an opposing litigant in a negative light”.
I am currently a news writer for News Bulletin247 where I mostly cover sports news. I have always been interested in writing and it is something I am very passionate about. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and spending time with my family and friends.
