WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – NOVEMBER 04: Chris Brown attends ‘The Lost Warhols’ Collection exhibit at HYDE Sunset: Kitchen + Cocktails on November 4, 2015 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images)
Chris Brown is taking Warner Bros to court over a documentary he claims defamed him. The R&B artist filed a lawsuit last year against the media company and producers of Chris Brown: A History of Violence, a film that explores past allegations of sexual assault and violent behavior. Brown says the documentary unfairly damaged his reputation, especially due to the inclusion of a woman whose prior allegations were dismissed in court.
In the lawsuit, Brown accuses the company of knowingly spreading falsehoods. “False information for profit,” the suit reads, adding that the film’s creators were fully aware of the woman’s discredited claims. Warner Bros has moved to dismiss the case. In its defense, the company referenced a series of news articles detailing Brown’s history, including his 2009 felony assault conviction involving then-girlfriend Rihanna. The incident led to a guilty plea and probation in lieu of jail time.
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Lawyers for the company also brought up a 2017 restraining order filed by actress Karrueche Tran, citing threatening messages Brown allegedly sent her. In court documents, Warner Bros’ legal team defended the film’s content by stating the supporting materials were “reputable news articles and media reports relevant to the case.” They argue the documentary falls under protected free speech and public interest journalism.
Chris Brown has not publicly responded to Warner Bros’ latest filing. The court has yet to determine if the case will move forward.
The unfolding case stands to redefine how filmmakers navigate the portrayal of public figures—and where the line is drawn on contentious storytelling.
