Damage to reputation: Bauer must pay millions in compensation to Rebel Wilson
Following a court ruling, the German media conglomerate Bauer must pay Australian actress Rebel Wilson 4.5 million Australian dollars, or the equivalent of 3.5 million Swiss francs, in compensation. The reason: defamation.
Justice John Dixon of the Supreme Court of Victoria said in Melbourne on Wednesday that a substantial amount of money was needed to rehabilitate Wilson after her reputation as a righteous actress had been badly damaged.
In June, the 37-year-old successfully defended herself in court against reports that she had spread lies about her name and age. The eight articles in question were published in 2015 in Australian Bauer Media Group magazines such as Women's Weekly and OK appeared. Wilson, who had starred in films such as "Pitch Perfect" and "Bridesmaids", had explained that she had missed out on roles in major film projects as a result.
Wilson's lawyers had demanded higher compensation of 5.9 million Australian dollars or 4.5 million Swiss francs. Bauer's defense lawyer Georgina Schoff responded by saying that the demand was "extraordinarily high" and added: "Reputation and compensation cannot be measured in money."
Wilson wants to donate money
The actress, who comes from Sydney, now lives in California. She appeared in person at the trial in June. However, she was not present when the compensation amount was announced.
However, she later announced on Twitter that she would donate the money to Australian aid organizations. She also said that part of it would be used to support the Australian film industry. Wilson added: "And I'm looking forward to getting back to my career and entertaining everyone."
