Trump Lawyers Withhold Financials in $10 Billion BBC Defamation Lawsuit
US President Donald Trump’s legal team has refused to provide financial information requested by BBC lawyers in his $10 billion defamation case against the broadcaster, according to court filings.
The lawsuit, filed in Florida, accuses the BBC of defaming Trump by editing a speech from January 6, 2021, to make it appear he directed supporters to storm the US Capitol. Trump is seeking at least $5 billion in damages on each of two counts, alleging the broadcaster violated a state law against deceptive and unfair trade practices.
In an effort to verify Trump’s claim that the broadcast injured “the value of his brand, properties, and businesses,” the BBC subpoenaed the Donald J Trump Revocable Trust. The trust, managed by his eldest son Donald Trump Jr., holds the president’s business interests and assets. According to a BBC court filing, the refusal to provide this information is the reason for a request by Trump’s team to delay the proceedings.
The BBC’s legal team sought extensive financial documents, including details on holdings, assets, properties, and tax returns for nearly 400 entities associated with the trust.
A spokesperson for Trump’s legal team stated the BBC was liable for “intentionally and maliciously defaming him by distorting and manipulating his speech,” adding that the president would continue to hold accountable those who “traffic in fake news.”
The documentary in question, first broadcast in 2024, featured a section where Trump told supporters to march on the Capitol and another, from nearly an hour later, where he said to “Fight like hell.” While the BBC has apologised for the edit, it is seeking to have the lawsuit dismissed, arguing that Trump’s subsequent reelection demonstrates his reputation was not harmed.
