Director Toback Ordered to Pay $15 Million in Sexual Assault Case: Jury Delivers Landmark Verdict
Los Angeles, CA — A Los Angeles jury has ruled in favor of a woman who accused filmmaker James Toback of sexual assault, ordering the Black and White director to pay $15 million in damages. The verdict, delivered Thursday after a weeks-long trial, marks a significant moment in the ongoing reckoning over sexual misconduct in Hollywood.
Allegations Spanning Decades
The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe in court documents, alleged that Toback sexually assaulted her in 2008 during a meeting at a Beverly Hills hotel under the guise of discussing a potential film role. Her lawsuit claimed Toback leveraged his industry influence to exploit aspiring actresses, with similar accusations from over 300 women surfacing in a 2017 Los Angeles Times exposé.
Jury Awards $15 Million in Damages
Jurors found Toback, 78, liable for battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and sexual assault. The $15 million award includes compensatory damages for emotional trauma and punitive damages aimed at punishing Toback for "malicious conduct." Legal experts called the sum unusually high for such cases, signaling a growing intolerance for predatory behavior in the #MeToo era.
Toback Denies Allegations
Toback, who has denied all allegations, was not present during the trial. His attorney, Stephen Weber, stated they plan to appeal, calling the verdict "unjust" and accusing the court of excluding key evidence. "Mr. Toback maintains his innocence and will continue to fight these false claims," Weber said.
Plaintiff’s Attorney Hails ‘Victory for Survivors’
The plaintiff’s lawyer, Gloria Allred, praised the ruling as a triumph for accountability. "This verdict sends a clear message: No one is above the law, regardless of their power or prestige," Allred said. Jane Doe, now 43, released a statement thanking jurors and survivors who came forward, adding, "This is not just my victory—it’s ours."
Broader Implications for Hollywood
The case reignites scrutiny over Toback’s career, which includes films like The Pick-up Artist and Two Girls and a Guy . Despite widespread accusations, he has not faced criminal charges due to statutes of limitations. Advocates argue the civil verdict could inspire more survivors to pursue justice through lawsuits.
The ruling also underscores shifting attitudes toward accountability in entertainment, where high-profile figures like Harvey Weinstein and Bill Cosby have faced legal consequences in recent years.
Next Steps
Toback’s legal team has 60 days to file an appeal. Meanwhile, Jane Doe’s case remains one of dozens pending against the director, with pretrial hearings for other accusers set for early 2024.
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