Legal analyses or court rulings

ABC News Settles Trump's Defamation Suit for $16 Million Over Stephanopoulos's False Rape Claim

Dec 18, 2024, 11:19 PM

ABC News has agreed to pay $16 million, including $1 million to cover legal fees, to settle a defamation lawsuit filed by President-elect Donald Trump. The lawsuit arose from comments made by ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos, who, despite warnings from his producer, incorrectly stated on air that Trump was "found liable for rape" in a civil case, whereas Trump was actually found liable for sexual abuse. The settlement, which includes a statement of regret from both ABC News and Stephanopoulos, was reportedly authorized by Disney CEO Bob Iger. Disney executives feared that continuing the legal battle might risk damaging press protections, particularly concerning the potential for the case to reach the Supreme Court and affect the landmark New York Times v. Sullivan ruling. The settlement has caused internal backlash within ABC News, with staff expressing concern over the precedent it sets for media accountability and the potential chilling effect on journalistic freedom. Stephanopoulos is reportedly "apoplectic" and "humiliated" over the settlement but has since signed a new multi-year contract with the network, ending speculation about his future at ABC News.