Rebel Wilson faces court over defamation

Suit stems from social media posts about 2023 incident involving actor Charlotte MacInnes

SYDNEY:

Actor Rebel Wilson appeared in a Sydney court on Monday at the start of a defamation case brought by Charlotte MacInnes, the lead actor in Wilson's directorial debut "The Deb," over allegations linked to a series of social media posts made by Wilson.

Claims by Wilson that MacInnes was harassed by a producer but then hid it to better her career are "malicious concoctions," the court heard.

MacInnes claims Wilson falsely suggested in Instagram posts that she had privately confided in her about being sexually harassed by one of the film's producers. Court filings allege Wilson failed to seek verification from MacInnes and made the claims despite knowing no complaint had been made.

In 2024 and 2025, Wilson posted on Instagram that MacInnes felt "uncomfortable" after sharing a bath with one of its female producers. Wilson claimed MacInnes retracted a complaint - which MacInnes denies making - in exchange for a major theatre role and a record deal.

MacInnes says the allegations have tarnished her reputation and is seeking damages. Lawyers for MacInnes said she made no complaint to Wilson about the bath incident.

The court saw private texts between Wilson, producer Amanda Ghost, and MacInnes. Ghost had an allergic reaction after a swim, and both later got into an oversized bath wearing swimsuits, "not even touching at all," the court heard.

Wilson's lawyer said MacInnes lied by denying she had complained "to ensure that her career progressed by appeasing Ms Ghost." He argued MacInnes had "suffered no harm to her reputation." Wilson has denied the claims, but her legal defence has not been disclosed.

(REUTERS WITH INPUT FROM NEWS DESK)