Trump Files $10 Billion Lawsuit Against BBC

Trump Sues BBC: Seeks $10 Billion in Damages

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has filed a lawsuit in a Florida court against BBC over alleged editing claims in the 'Panorama' documentary related to his speech prior to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. In the lawsuit filed in the Southern District of Florida Federal Court, Trump is seeking a total of $10 billion in damages for defamation and violation of Florida's commercial practices law.

Editing Scandal and Allegations

In a 33-page complaint submitted by Trump's legal team, BBC is accused of "wrongfully, defamatory and deceptively portraying Trump." The court documents state that the documentary distorted Trump's words, making it appear as if President Trump called his supporters to attack the Capitol. The complaint included the statement, "President Trump never said this series of words."

Statement in the Oval Office

In a statement made in the Oval Office, Trump claimed that BBC fabricated words that were not his and far from patriotism. He criticized the situation, saying, "They portrayed me as saying things I never said."

BBC's Apology Statement

Earlier last month, BBC acknowledged the editing was erroneous in a statement issued by Chairman Samir Shah, apologizing to both Trump and the audience.

Consequences of the Scandal

Following the editing scandal, BBC Director General Tim Davie and News Director Deborah Turness resigned. Davie listed the editing scandal and the renewal process of the broadcasting contract among the reasons for his resignation.

Emergence of the Editing

These discussions became public following leaked communications published by The Telegraph Gazette. The communications contained information confirming that the Panorama documentary distorted Trump's speech.