Rebel Wilson Details Alleged Retaliation in ‘The Deb‘ Dispute, Claims She Was a ‘Whistleblower‘
LOS ANGELES – Rebel Wilson has publicly addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding her film The deb, alleging a campaign of retaliation after she spoke out against producers regarding alleged misconduct and financial irregularities. In a recent interview, Wilson detailed accusations of theft, sexual misconduct, and defamation leveled against her and the producers, as well as claims that damaging websites targeting a producer were not created or directed by her.
The dispute centers around The Deb, a film Wilson starred in and directed for the first time. Wilson stated that producers initially blocked her from having a director’s profile, a move she believes was retaliatory for her raising concerns. “It would be good for me as a first-time female director to have that profile and they blocked it as part of their retaliation against me speaking up against them,” she said.
Wilson initially shared her frustrations on social media,stating she was “standing up for my movie and the hard work that everybody put into it for years.” the producers ultimately allowed The Deb to screen at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), but subsequently filed a defamation lawsuit against Wilson, claiming she fabricated allegations to secure a coveted closing spot at TIFF and a writing credit. Wilson responded with a countersuit, reiterating accusations of theft and sexual misconduct.
The controversy escalated when websites appeared portraying producer Amanda Ghost as a “sex trafficker.” Wilson vehemently denied any involvement, stating, “I had zero to do with the websites… I don’t even know how to create a website.I had nothing to do with what was on it.” She also claimed to have no recollection of directing followers to the sites,posting about them on The Deb‘s Instagram,or informing Ghost’s associates about them.
Wilson characterized the legal battle as “a ridiculous waste of the Australian legal system.” She also addressed claims made by actress MacInnes, who initially wasn’t identified by name by Wilson, and later made public statements. Wilson pointed to MacInnes’ subsequent career advancements, including a lead role in a production and a record label deal, both connected to the producer of The Deb. “I believe her only work as The Deb was a role in a stage show that Amanda Ghost produced,” Wilson explained, adding, ”it’s undeniable the benefits she has received since finishing filming the film.”
Wilson firmly asserted her role as a whistleblower. “This is a situation where I was a whistleblower. I stood up when it was important to stand up and say something.”
The Deb has been acquired by Rialto Distribution for release in Australia and New zealand, with a wide theatrical release planned for January.
