Composer Danny Elfman’s attempt to dismiss a defamation lawsuit filed by Nomi Abadi has been rejected by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge. Abadi’s suit stems from statements Elfman made to *Rolling Stone* in a March 2023 article detailing a secret $830,000 sexual harassment settlement with Abadi. Elfman argued that his statements were protected speech under California’s anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) statute and enjoyed litigation privilege, claiming they were made in anticipation of suing *Rolling Stone* for defamation. However, Judge Gail Killefer dismissed this argument, stating that the letter to *Rolling Stone* functioned more as a press release than a genuine pre-litigation demand, and that Elfman never actually filed suit against the publication. The judge drew parallels to the unsuccessful anti-SLAPP motion filed by Bill Cosby’s lawyers in a similar case, highlighting the intention to silence critics rather than pursue genuine litigation.
Abadi’s lawsuit alleges that Elfman defamed her by denying her accusations of sexual misconduct, which included claims of masturbation in her presence, inappropriate touching, and the placement of bodily fluids in a drink. The suit further alleges that Elfman and his representatives portrayed Abadi as a scorned woman seeking revenge after he rejected her advances. Abadi claims at least 20 high-profile publications repeated these statements. Elfman, through his attorney Camille Vasquez (known for her work with Johnny Depp), initially argued that the one-year statute of limitations had expired. However, Judge Killefer countered that the statute began upon publication of Elfman’s statements in July 2023, rendering Abadi’s July filing timely.
Further, Elfman attempted to frame his statements as opinion rather than fact. Judge Killefer rejected this argument, stating that a reasonable person could interpret Elfman’s denials as provable false assertions of fact. The judge noted that Abadi provided testimony demonstrating the harm these statements caused to her reputation and career aspirations. Despite the ongoing lawsuit, Elfman continues to work prolifically, having recently composed the score for the film “Beetlejuice 2.” Abadi is represented by Eric George, who previously worked with Amber Heard. Neither George nor Vasquez responded to requests for comment.