Major update on Trump $10bn lawsuit against BBC as trial date set
Donald Trump's $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the BBC over a Panorama program edit will proceed to trial in February 2027.Summary
A $10 billion defamation lawsuit filed by former US President Donald Trump against the BBC is scheduled to go to trial in Miami, Florida, on February 15, 2027. The case stems from the editing of a 2024 Panorama episode which included clips from a 2021 speech by Mr. Trump, accused of falsely implying he encouraged supporters to storm the Capitol building. The BBC argued for the dismissal of the lawsuit, citing lack of jurisdiction and claiming the documentary wasn’t widely available in the US, but a Florida judge rejected their request for a delay in discovery.
The BBC has acknowledged that the edit gave “the mistaken impression that President Trump had made a direct call for violent action” and issued an apology, but rejected Mr. Trump’s claims for compensation. Mr. Trump’s lawyers contend the editing was “false and defamatory” and are seeking up to $10 billion in damages.
The court has ordered both parties to select a mediator by March 3, 2026, and a two-week hearing is planned at the Wilkie D Ferguson Jr US Courthouse. The BBC stated they will be defending the case but will not provide further comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.
(Source：Express)