Francis Ford Coppola, the renowned filmmaker behind movies like The Godfather, has filed a $15 million libel lawsuit against Variety magazine. Coppola claims Variety and two editors made false accusations about his behavior on set.
Variety published a story in July alleging Coppola acted inappropriately with scantily dressed extras during filming of his new movie Megalopolis. The article cites two anonymous sources and blurry video clips. But Coppola says the videos only show him greeting extras to set the mood for a club scene.
Several crew members defended Coppola. First assistant director Mariela Comitini called the set “vibrant, professional, and positive.” Executive co-producer Darren Demetre said Coppola interacted with actors to “help inspire and establish the club atmosphere.”
Legal experts say Coppola likely wants to clear his name more than the money. Neama Rahmani, head of a California law firm, believes Coppola may force Variety to take back the story.
Winning such a case is difficult in California where freedom of the press is strongly protected. As a famous person, Coppola also must prove Variety knew the claims were false or did not care if they were true.
Additionally, an extra named Lauren Pagone has separately sued Coppola for allegedly touching her without consent multiple times. Coppola continues to deny these claims.
Coppola just lost his wife and finished his $120 million movie Megalopolis, which some critics disliked. How the lawsuit turns out remains uncertain but will be closely watched in Hollywood and by legal professionals.
Variety stands by its reporting. A spokesperson for the magazine’s owner said they will not comment on the case but support the reporters involved. Most experts think the lawsuit will likely settle instead of going to trial.
