Chris Brown sues Warner Bros for Sh64.8 billion over 'History of Violence' documentary

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Chris Brown sues Warner Bros for Sh64.8 billion over 'History of Violence' documentary
American R&B singer and producer Chris Brown. (Courtesy/Instagram)

American R&B singer and producer Chris Brown has filed a $500 million (Sh64.8 billion) lawsuit against the creators of the documentary Chris Brown: A History of Violence. The lawsuit targets Ample, LLC, Warner Brothers, and individuals involved in producing the film.

The documentary trailer, released on 27 October 2024, explores Brown’s troubled past, including his childhood and allegations of abuse. According to Brown’s attorneys, the film contains false and misleading allegations that have harmed his reputation.

The lawsuit claims: “Despite being notified of the false and misleading narrative accusing Mr Brown of heinous acts, including sexual assault and evidence tampering—allegations that had been discredited in court and dismissed as baseless—the defendants chose to release the documentary trailer on October 27, 2024, without regard for Mr Brown, prioritizing profits over journalistic integrity.”

The legal filing specifically mentions a woman referred to as “Jane Doe” in the documentary. She accuses Brown of assault, but the lawsuit states her claims were dismissed by a court in October 2024.

“Jane Doe’s false allegations were thoroughly discredited in court years ago. It is perplexing that these production companies would elevate her discredited claims over the truth established in the court of law. Despite being fully aware of these facts prior to the documentary release, AMPLE, LLC and Warner Bros chose to amplify her defamatory lie,” the lawsuit states.

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Brown’s attorneys argue that the filmmakers ignored verified facts and never reached out to Brown or his team before releasing the trailer. They allege this was an intentional effort to harm his reputation and sway public opinion.

The lawsuit states: “To be clear, Mr Brown has never been charged with, or found guilty of, any sexual crime.” It accuses the documentary’s creators of “ignoring verifiable facts and acting without integrity.”

Levi G. McCathern, Brown’s lawyer, commented: “This case is about protecting the truth. Despite being provided with evidence disapproving their claims, the producers of this documentary intentionally promoted false and defamatory information. These actions undermine not only Mr Brown’s decade-long efforts to rebuild his life but also the credibility of true survivors of violence.”

Brown’s past legal troubles have been widely publicised. In 2009, he pleaded guilty to assaulting his ex-girlfriend Rihanna and was sentenced to probation and community service.

Other accusations have included restraining orders and sexual assault claims. In one 2022 case, a $20 million lawsuit was filed against him, but it was later dismissed for lack of evidence.

Through this lawsuit, Brown is seeking accountability and reparations. According to the filing, “a portion of the $500 million will be donated to survivors of sexual abuse.”

The creators of the documentary have not commented on the lawsuit.

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