Rebel Wilson’s directorial debut drama The Deb is proving juicier than a summer blockbuster. The 44-year-old comedy queen has been duking it out with the producers of her musical The Deb since the summer, and it’s safe to say this isn’t the kind of duet she signed up for.
Let’s rewind: Rebel claimed misconduct on the producers’ part, which led to a defamation lawsuit faster than you can say, “Call my lawyer!” Not one to back down, Rebel hit them with a countersuit in September. Think of it as legal tennis, but instead of rackets, they’re slinging subpoenas.
The Plot Thickens (And Not in Rebel’s Favor)
Fast forward to Thursday (November 21), when Rebel’s attempt to throw out the defamation suit got smacked down by LA Superior Court Judge Thomas D. Long. Why? Because accusing someone of “criminal conduct” isn’t exactly covered under “protected activities.” (Who knew?)
Now, Judge Long didn’t say it outright, but you can almost hear him thinking, “Girl, you can’t just drop bombshells and call it free speech!”
Meanwhile, Camille Vasquez, the producers’ attorney—and, yes, the same Camille who sparred with Johnny Depp’s ex in court—wasted no time getting a zinger in. She told Deadline, “We’re very gratified by the Court’s ruling. Defendant Rebel Wilson’s anti-SLAPP motion was a cynical attempt to stifle a valid legal claim.” Translation? Nice try, Rebel. Better luck next time.
What About the Movie?
Here’s where things get sticky: this courtroom chaos is putting The Deb on pause. Forget a premiere date for now—this movie might need its own behind-the-scenes documentary first. Sure, it made its debut at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, where Rebel’s baby girl made her red carpet debut (awww), but the rest of us may be waiting a while before it hits theaters.
Until then, let’s hope Rebel’s next move in court is as clever as her Pitch Perfect comebacks. Because, as it stands, her legal mic drop is still stuck in sound check. 🎤
