Trump drops BBC Studios from $10bn Panorama defamation suit
Donald Trump has dropped BBC Studios from his $10bn defamation lawsuit over a Panorama episode, but continues his claim against the BBC. The lawsuit, filed in Florida, alleges the BBC 'intentionally, maliciously, and deceptively doctored' his January 6, 2021 speech. The BBC apologized for an editing error that gave a 'mistaken impression' but seeks dismissal, arguing the program does not meet defamation criteria and was not available on US platforms. Trump's lawyers admitted no evidence the documentary was on BritBox, BBC.com, or US broadcasters, but claim geo-blocking was ineffective and staff instructed US viewers on accessing it. A trial is set for February 2027. The controversy led to resignations of BBC director general Tim Davie and head of news Deborah Turness after a leaked internal memo.
Key facts
- Trump dropped BBC Studios Productions and BBC Studios Distribution from the lawsuit.
- Trump continues his $10bn defamation claim against the BBC.
- The lawsuit concerns a 2024 Panorama episode editing Trump's January 6, 2021 speech.
- Trump accuses the BBC of 'intentionally, maliciously, and deceptively doctoring' his speech.
- BBC apologized for an editing error giving a 'mistaken impression' of a call for violence.
- BBC seeks dismissal, arguing the program doesn't meet defamation criteria and wasn't on US platforms.
- Trump's lawyers admitted no evidence the documentary was on BritBox, BBC.com, or US broadcasters.
- Trial date set for February 2027.
- BBC director general Tim Davie and head of news Deborah Turness resigned after a leaked memo.
Entities
Institutions
- BBC
- BBC Studios Productions
- BBC Studios Distribution
- BritBox
- BBC.com
- BBC Select
- Telegraph
- Panorama
- The Telegraph
Locations
- Florida
- United States
- United Kingdom