Russell Simmons has filed a $20 million defamation lawsuit against HBO, Warner Bros. Discovery, and the filmmakers of the 2020 documentary On the Record. The lawsuit, submitted in Manhattan Supreme Court, alleges the film damaged his reputation and business interests by presenting a biased narrative that ignored critical exculpatory evidence.
Simmons, a pioneer of hip-hop culture and co-creator of HBO's Def Comedy Jam and Def Poetry, claims the filmmakers and network disregarded CIA-grade polygraph test results, supportive interviews, and statements that could have cast doubt on the allegations of sexual misconduct featured in the film.
The lawsuit names former HBO CEO John Stankey, and directors Amy Ziering and Kirby Dick, accusing them of engaging in deceptive business practices, causing emotional distress, and violating his legal rights. Simmons is demanding at least $20 million in damages and the immediate removal of On the Record from HBO and all affiliated platforms.
His legal team argues that continued streaming of the documentary constitutes a “republication” of defamatory content, further harming Simmons’ reputation. Despite confidential settlements with some accusers, Simmons maintains his innocence, stating he never had a non-consensual or unlawful sexual encounter.
The lawsuit also mentions that prominent civil rights leaders and members of Congress urged the filmmakers to consider additional evidence, but their appeals were allegedly ignored. Simmons says the international distribution of the documentary has amplified the damage to his name.
The film premiered at Sundance Film Festival in January 2020 and was later released on HBO Max. Before its debut, Oprah Winfrey stepped down as executive producer, citing inconsistencies in the featured stories.
Simmons continues to deny all allegations made against him, asserting his legal battle is about restoring his name and legacy.
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