Hunter Biden withdraws lawsuit against Fox News over mock trial series

Former President Joe Biden’s son dropped his suit against Fox News, though the case could be refiled later.

Hunter Biden has voluntarily dismissed his lawsuit against Fox News Network, LLC, Fox Corporation, and John and Jane Does 1-100, as revealed by Deadline.

The one-page notice filed in federal court cites Rule 41(a)(1)(A)(i) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and indicates the dismissal is "without prejudice," suggesting that Biden may potentially refile the case in the future. 

The notice, prepared by Biden's attorney Tina Glandian, does not provide further reasons for the withdrawal. The move follows Biden’s previous legal action concerning Fox News’ mock trial series that portrayed sexually explicit content related to him.

Fox News had previously defended the mock trial series, stating the lawsuit was "politically motivated" and lacked merit. The network also noted that the program, which was removed from Fox Nation in April 2024, did not prompt a complaint until Biden's legal team sent a letter in late April. 

The lawsuit sought to address alleged violations of state civil rights law, including claims related to the nonconsensual disclosure of explicit images, and demanded the removal and destruction of such content.

The dismissal comes amid Biden’s ongoing legal challenges, including efforts to overturn a federal gun conviction based on arguments related to the constitutionality of special counsel appointments. 

The case was notably influenced by a ruling by Judge Aileen Cannon, appointed by former President Donald Trump, which the Department of Justice plans to appeal.