Charles Collier, Rebel Wilson’s Agent, Discusses the Challenging Legal Fight Over ‘The Deb’
Legal Turmoil Surrounds Rebel Wilson’s Directorial Debut ‘The Deb’
In a Sydney courtroom, Charles Collier, the UK agent for actress and director Rebel Wilson, provided candid insights into the escalating legal challenges surrounding her film The Deb. Collier appeared via video link from the UK, expressing his dismay at the proceedings, which he likened to a “car crash” stemming from interpersonal conflicts on the independent film set.
Wilson is facing a defamation lawsuit from Charlotte MacInnes, the lead actress of The Deb. MacInnes claims that Wilson damaged her reputation by suggesting that she had initially made a sexual harassment complaint against producer Amanda Ghost, only to retract her allegations for career advancement.
In her defense, Wilson contends that MacInnes had expressed discomfort over an incident in September 2023, during which the two shared a bath in swimsuits.
During his testimony, Collier displayed visible frustration regarding the unfolding legal saga, revealing his efforts to mediate tensions between Wilson and Ghost after the bathing situation. He expressed a desire to communicate with Danny Cohen, the president of Access Industries—the film’s financier—to navigate the dispute more effectively, indicating that he preferred discussions with "the adults in the room."
Collier reflected on the situation, stating, “My recollection was, ‘Oh, this is very, very sad. This is very depressing. We’ve got this film up and running, and now people are falling out.’” He emphasized that it would have been beneficial for Wilson to consult Cohen, as he held the authority to help resolve the escalating issues.
Throughout his testimony, Collier’s demeanor ranged from casual, sipping coffee from a china cup, to yawning audibly as he relayed his account. He positioned himself firmly in the belief that Ghost’s conduct during the bathing incident did not meet professional standards.
In correspondence with Cohen in October 2023, Collier described the incident as a “red flag matter” and urged for Ghost to be temporarily removed from the film’s shoot in Australia. Furthermore, the court reviewed an email from Collier to Wilson, in which he mentioned his intention to insert an ethics clause into Ghost’s producer contract, which would allow for suspension or termination should Ghost display inappropriate behavior during production.
Collier explained, “We are trying to find language there to put Amanda Ghost on the spot as a producer… no right-thinking producer could have any hesitation to sign up to such a clause.” However, he was unable to confirm whether the clause was ultimately incorporated into Ghost’s contract.
The court was also presented with supportive messages Collier sent to Wilson during the turmoil. He emphasized the importance of maintaining strong leadership and creative vision during production, urging her to continue pushing forward despite the challenges.
Earlier on the same day, Greer Simpkin, the Australian producer for The Deb, provided testimony, stating that MacInnes had allegedly "done some fudging" regarding the claims about Ghost’s behavior.
As the trial progressed, Wilson garnered support from fans outside the Sydney courthouse, taking time to pose for selfies despite the legal pressures she faces. The case continues to be overseen by Justice Elizabeth Raper.
