The BBC is moving to dismiss the $10 billion defamation lawsuit filed by Trump concerning a Panorama program, as stated in court documents. The TV show came under fire at the end of last year for an episode aired in 2024.
The controversial episode spliced clips of Trump’s speech from January 6, 2021, giving the impression that he incited his supporters to storm the Capitol building. Trump is seeking damages of up to $10 billion for what his lawyers claim was a “false and defamatory” edit of his speech. The BBC has filed documents asserting that the Florida court lacks jurisdiction over them, the venue is inappropriate, and Trump’s claim lacks merit.
The BBC contends that the documentary was not created, produced, or broadcast in Florida, despite Trump’s assertion that it was available on BritBox. They argue that Trump has not shown evidence of “actual malice,” a requirement for defamation suits against public officials in the US. The BBC has requested a halt to further discovery until a decision is made on the motion.
A potential trial date for 2027 has been suggested if the case proceeds. Trump previously announced his intention to sue the BBC over the alleged misrepresentation of his words. The BBC had issued an apology for the edit, acknowledging an “error of judgment,” but denies any legal grounds for Trump’s claim.
Trump’s legal team criticized the BBC for what they perceive as biased coverage aimed at influencing the presidential election. The Panorama edit led to the resignation of Tim Davie, the BBC’s director-general, and Deborah Turness, the head of BBC News, who took responsibility for the incident.
Requests for comment have been made to the BBC by PA.