Rebel Wilson cleared in defamation case brought by actress in her own film

Rebel Wilson, known for her roles in Bridesmaids and Pitch Perfect, has been officially cleared of accusations that she defamed a young Australian actress, according to a Sydney civil court.

Case background

The lawsuit was filed by Charlotte MacInnes, who played a supporting role in Wilson’s 2025 film The Deb. MacInnes claimed that Wilson posted on Instagram in 2024 and 2025 that she had “retracted” a complaint of sexual harassment against a film producer, asserting that this alleged change of story damaged MacInnes’s reputation. The actress denied the claim, calling it false and harmful.

Judicial decision

On Wednesday, Justice Elizabeth Raper dismissed the case, ruling that the complaint of staff misconduct was not a defamatory statement. The judge noted that the context of the alleged “bath” incident with producer Amanda Ghost was unusual and that the posts were unlikely to cause serious harm to MacInnes’s standing. The court ordered MacInnes to pay Wilson’s legal costs.

Reactions

Wilson posted on Instagram after the ruling, expressing gratitude for the support she received and emphasizing her commitment to staying true to herself and producing joyful work. “It has tested me, but it has also reinforced something I’ve always believed,” she wrote. She also thanked the judge, the Australian legal system, and her supporters.

MacInnes has yet to issue a statement. The BBC has reached out for comment.

Implications for Hollywood

The case highlights the growing intersection of social media allegations and traditional legal remedies for public figures. While the judgment provides a win for Wilson, it also serves as a reminder that the exact wording and context of online posts can play a crucial role in defamation proceedings. The court’s insistence on proving actual harm to reputation may set a precedent for future celebrity defamation cases in Australia.