Gillian Anderson reveals why Sony pulled out of 'The Salt Path'

Gillian Anderson has revealed that Sony withdrew from a U.S. distribution deal for The Salt Path after allegations questioned the accuracy of the memoir on which the film is based.

Anderson, who stars alongside Jason Isaacs in the film, said the decision came as the project was preparing to secure U.S. distribution. Speaking to The Times of London, the actress described Sony’s withdrawal as a “huge letdown” and said it felt like a betrayal after the cast had spent time with the memoir’s authors.

The Salt Path is based on Ray and Moth Winn’s memoir of the same name. The story follows a couple who lose their home and embark on a long walk along England’s south coast after Moth receives a terminal illness diagnosis. Anderson plays Ray, while Isaacs portrays Moth.

The book and film were initially presented as a true story. However, an investigation by the U.K.’s Observer last year alleged that several key elements of the couple’s account had been misrepresented. The report questioned claims surrounding the loss of their home and Moth’s medical diagnosis, while also revealing that the authors had used pseudonyms.

The Winns disputed the allegations at the time.

Anderson said the revelations were particularly disappointing because the production team had believed the story and had developed a relationship with the couple. She also questioned what level of due diligence had been conducted before the project was made.

Despite Sony’s exit, The Salt Path is still moving forward with a North American release. Rialto Distribution International is set to release the film in the United States and Canada later this month.

Rialto CEO Kelly Rogers previously praised the movie as a story about love, endurance and starting over. Sony has not publicly responded to Anderson’s comments.