Rebel Wilson has publicly addressed the legal challenges and allegations surrounding her directorial debut, The Deb. In an interview with 60 Minutes Australia, the actress described the experience as a “worst nightmare,” revealing that it was both unexpected and difficult to navigate. The film, an adaptation of an Australian stage play, tells the story of a city girl who moves to the outback to help her cousin become a debutante.
During the interview, Wilson recounted a troubling incident that occurred shortly before the 60 Minutes crew visited the set. She alleged that she and local producers were “locked in a room” and forced to sign documents, suggesting that significant issues had arisen. According to Wilson, the conflict primarily involved the U.K. producers, whom she accused of “incessant bullying and harassment” after she reported serious misconduct.
Last year, Wilson disclosed that she had raised concerns about inappropriate behavior directed at lead actress Charlotte MacInnes and alleged financial misconduct involving the film’s budget. She claimed to have documented instances of embezzlement and sexual harassment by producers Amanda Ghost, Gregory Cameron, and Vince Holden. Wilson stated, “I felt, in my position as director, I had to report that and the moment I did, started all the kind of retaliation against me.”
MacInnes later alleged that Ghost made her uncomfortable by suggesting they share a bath after an incident while filming at Bondi Beach. Wilson emphasized that she acted on MacInnes’ complaint, stating, “I had a duty to then act on it.” However, MacInnes has denied these claims and is now pursuing a defamation lawsuit against Wilson.
The legal disputes intensified as Wilson claimed the U.K. producers attempted to siphon nearly $1 million from the film’s budget and blocked its premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. She argued that their refusal to release the film was a tactic of retaliation against her for speaking up. Wilson previously expressed on social media that she was defending the hard work that went into the film.
Ultimately, the producers agreed to release The Deb for screening at TIFF, but they filed a defamation lawsuit against Wilson, alleging that she made false statements to secure a prime screening opportunity and a writing credit. In response, Wilson filed a countersuit, reiterating her accusations of misconduct and financial impropriety.
Wilson has denied any involvement with websites that branded Ghost as a “sex trafficker,” insisting, “I had zero to do with the websites.” She expressed frustration over the situation, stating, “I think it’s a ridiculous waste of the Australian legal system.”
In her remarks about MacInnes, Wilson clarified that she did not initially name her in her statements and pointed out that the actress had benefited from her connection to the production. “I believe her only work since The Deb was a role in a stage show that Amanda Ghost produced,” Wilson noted.
Reflecting on her role in the controversy, Wilson described herself as a whistleblower. “This is a situation where I was a whistleblower. I stood up when it was important to stand up and say something,” she stated.
Currently, Rialto Distribution has acquired the rights to The Deb in Australia and New Zealand, with plans for a wide theatrical release in January 2024. As the legal battles continue, the film’s journey highlights the complexities of navigating the entertainment industry while addressing serious allegations.
