The BBC is moving to dismiss a $10 billion defamation lawsuit filed by former President Trump over a Panorama program, court documents reveal. The program came under fire for an episode aired in 2024 that suggested Trump incited his supporters to storm the Capitol building in 2021 by editing segments of his speech.
Trump is seeking damages for what his lawyers claim was a “false and defamatory” edit of his speech. The BBC has countered by filing a motion to dismiss, arguing that the Florida court lacks jurisdiction, the venue is improper, and Trump has not substantiated his claim.
The BBC asserts that the documentary was not created or broadcast in Florida, despite Trump’s claim that it was available on BritBox. Furthermore, the BBC contends that Trump has not shown that the documentary was published with “actual malice,” a necessary element for a defamation suit against public officials in the US.
If the case proceeds, a trial date in 2027 has been suggested. Despite the BBC’s apology for the edit, Trump’s legal team maintains that it was a deliberate attempt at election interference. The edit led to the resignation of top BBC officials, acknowledging mistakes in judgment.
The BBC has been approached for comment on the matter.