Judge Denies Danny Elfman's Motion to Dismiss Defamation Lawsuit by Nomi Abadi
Danny Elfman, renowned composer and former Oingo Boingo singer, has failed in his attempt to dismiss a defamation lawsuit filed by composer Nomi Abadi regarding statements he made to Rolling Stone in 2023.
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Photo Credit: Sachyn / CC by 3.0
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Gail Killefer ruled against Elfman's motion to dismiss, which claimed his comments were protected free speech made in anticipation of litigation against Rolling Stone. The judge determined that "the litigation privilege does not apply to defendant Elfman's statements" as no serious litigation against Rolling Stone was contemplated.
The lawsuit stems from Elfman's response to an investigative piece about a secret sexual harassment settlement involving a former protégé. Abadi sued Elfman in July 2023, claiming he "peddled appalling lies" in his letter to Rolling Stone, including statements denying sexual misconduct allegations.
The background of the case involves a non-public settlement and nondisclosure agreement between Elfman and Abadi, following allegations of multiple instances of sexual misconduct between 2015 and 2016. Abadi previously sued Elfman for failing to pay the full settlement amount of $830,000. Elfman has consistently denied all allegations.
Elfman's attorney, Camille Vasquez - known for representing Johnny Depp in his defamation case against Amber Heard - stated they plan to appeal the decision, expressing optimism that the Court of Appeal will support dismissing the case.
The case will now proceed through the legal system, with Abadi's legal team challenging Elfman's characterization of her as a "scorned woman seeking revenge and money because she was rejected by her idol."
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