Russell Simmons has filed a $20 million defamation lawsuit against the filmmakers of the documentary “On the Record.” The film focuses on sexual assault and misconduct allegations made against Simmons by several women. Simmons’ lawyer, Imran Ansari, claims the filmmakers ignored credible information and witness statements that supported Simmons. “The defendants simply disregarded it, and released, and continue to re-release globally, a film that tremendously disparaged and damaged Mr.
Simmons with salacious and defamatory accusations that he vehemently denies,” Ansari said in a statement. Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of HBO, denied the allegations.
“We dispute Mr. Simmons’ allegations, stand by the filmmakers and their process, and will vigorously defend ourselves against these unfounded allegations,” a spokesperson said. Simmons will need to prove that Warner Bros.
Simmons challenges HBO defamation claims
Discovery is liable for more recent “republication” in international markets, as the statute of limitations for defamation actions in New York is one year from the date of first publication. The film debuted at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2020 and was initially intended for Apple TV+ as part of Oprah Winfrey’s deal with the streamer.
However, Winfrey withdrew from the project, and the film was eventually released by HBO Max. Simmons’ representatives appealed to executives at the time, including Casey Bloys and WarnerMedia CEO John Stankey, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The lawsuit demands the immediate removal of the documentary from platforms and at least $20 million in damages.
Simmons has faced multiple lawsuits, including from some individuals featured in the documentary. In November 2023, he reached a confidential settlement with Sil Lai Abrams, one of the women interviewed, for $1,265,000. More than 20 women have accused Simmons of sexual assault.
Imran Ansari, Simmons’ lawyer, is a partner at Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins, the New York law firm currently representing Harvey Weinstein in his criminal retrial.
