Russell Simmons filed a $20 million lawsuit against HBO, claiming the network and filmmakers ignored evidence and defamed him in the documentary “On the Record.”
Russell Simmons helped shape HBO’s legacy with culture-defining shows like Def Comedy Jam and Def Poetry, but now he’s suing the network for $20 million over a documentary he says defamed him and ignored key evidence in his defense.
The lawsuit, filed in Manhattan Supreme Court, targets HBO’s former CEO John Stankey, Warner Bros. Discovery and filmmakers Amy Ziering and Kirby Dick over the 2020 film On the Record, which centers on multiple women accusing Simmons of sexual misconduct.
Simmons claims the film damaged his reputation and business interests by presenting a one-sided narrative.
He alleges the filmmakers and HBO “ignored and suppressed” interviews, polygraph results, and statements that could have supported his version of events.
He also accuses them of deceptive business practices and emotional distress.
The lawsuit demands the immediate removal of On the Record from all HBO and Warner Bros. Discovery platforms and seeks at least $20 million in damages, plus legal fees.
Simmons’ attorney, Imran Ansari, argues the film’s continued distribution amounts to “republication” of defamatory content. The complaint states that despite being presented with exculpatory material, the filmmakers “chose to disregard” it.
The documentary premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2020 and was later released on HBO Max. Before its debut, Oprah Winfrey withdrew as executive producer, citing “inconsistencies” in the accounts presented.
Simmons settled with accuser Sil-Lai Abrams in November 2023, one of several women featured in the film. Simmons entered into confidential settlements with at least six women, totaling nearly $8 million, although some allege that he failed to pay the agreed-upon amounts.
More than 20 women have publicly accused Simmons of sexual misconduct, with alleged incidents dating back to the 1980s. Simmons has consistently denied all allegations, stating, “I have never had a sexual encounter that was not consensual or lawful.”
In the lawsuit, Simmons also pointed to support from civil rights leaders and members of Congress who urged the filmmakers to consider additional evidence.
He claims their requests were ignored.
The legal filing accuses HBO of continuing to distribute the film internationally, which Simmons says has amplified the damage to his reputation.
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