Netflix and Ava DuVernay Settle Defamation Suit Over ‘When They See Us’

Netflix and Ava DuVernay have settled a defamation lawsuit with former NYC prosecutor Linda Fairstein regarding her portrayal in the mini-series “When They See Us.” The series dramatizes the wrongful conviction of the Central Park Five. As part of the settlement, Netflix will move a disclaimer about the dramatization to the beginning of each episode. Netflix will also donate $1 million to the Innocence Project, while Fairstein will receive no monetary compensation. The settlement was reached just before the trial was set to begin. Fairstein’s lawsuit claimed her portrayal as a “racist, unethical villain” was defamatory. Despite initial intentions to go to trial, DuVernay acknowledged the resolution involving a disclaimer and donation.

Source: BET