Rebel Wilson has won a defamation case brought against her by Australian actress Charlotte MacInnes. Sydney’s court ruled in favor of the star of *Bridesmaids* and *Pitch Perfect*, rejecting claims that Wilson’s 2024 and 2025 Instagram posts defamed MacInnes by accusing her of retracting a sexual harassment complaint to advance her career.
A dispute over a Bondi Beach bath
The legal battle centered on an incident in September 2023 at Bondi Beach. Charlotte MacInnes and film producer Amanda Ghost had gone for a swim. Ghost developed an allergic reaction to the cold water and returned with MacInnes to her luxury apartment. Both were wearing swimsuits when Ghost took a shower and MacInnes filled a bath to warm up. Ghost joined her in the tub.
MacInnes later described the situation as “weird” or “strange and bizarre,” while Wilson claimed the actress had said she felt “uncomfortable.” The conversation between the two, which took place afterward, became a point of contention in court. MacInnes alleged the Hollywood star had mischaracterized the incident and used it to harm their relationship during the production of the film *The Deb*.
Court dismisses case, criticizes claims as unsubstantiated
Justice Elizabeth Raper ruled in favor of Wilson, stating that the claims about MacInnes retracting her complaint were not defamatory. The judge noted the bath incident itself was “unusual” but said MacInnes had failed to prove the Instagram posts caused or were likely to cause serious harm.
MacInnes’ legal team had accused Wilson of spreading “malicious concoctions” and even alleged she had hired a smear campaign against Ghost, claims Wilson denied. Meanwhile, Wilson’s lawyer highlighted MacInnes had signed a record deal recently, suggesting the posts did not damage her career.
Rebel Wilson reflects on the legal battle
Moments after the court decision, Wilson posted on Instagram, expressing gratitude that the “chapter has reached its conclusion.” She said the case had tested her but reinforced her belief in speaking up for what she thinks is right. Wilson also praised the Australian legal system and thanked her supporters.