BBC Subpoenas Trump Family in $10bn Defamation Lawsuit
In response to Donald Trump’s $10 billion defamation lawsuit regarding a Panorama episode, the BBC is attempting to subpoena Donald Trump Jr., Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner. This lawsuit, initiated in Florida last December, accuses the BBC of "intentionally, maliciously and deceptively doctoring" Trump's remarks prior to the Capitol riots in 2021. Although the BBC has acknowledged an editing mistake, it refutes the defamation claims. The organization contends that the Trump family possesses "personal knowledge" of Trump’s intentions. Efforts to deliver subpoenas have failed, encountering refusals at police checkpoints and Trump Tower. The BBC has chosen not to comment, while Trump has removed BBC Studios from the lawsuit. A trial is scheduled for February 2027.
Key facts
- BBC sought subpoenas for Donald Trump Jr, Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner in May.
- Trump's $10bn defamation lawsuit against BBC over Panorama episode.
- Lawsuit filed in Florida in December 2024.
- BBC apologized for editing error but denies defamation.
- Family members had 'personal knowledge' of Trump's speech intentions.
- Attempts to serve subpoenas were unsuccessful; requests to serve by email and certified mail.
- Trump dropped BBC Studios from lawsuit; judge delayed financial records handover.
- Trial scheduled for February 2027.
Entities
Institutions
- BBC
- BBC Studios Productions
- BBC Studios Distribution
- BritBox
- BBC.com
- BBC Select
- US Congress
- Secret Service
Locations
- Florida
- New York
- Washington D.C.
- United States