NEW YORK (AP) - A New York jury has awarded $90,000 in damages to the producers of a musical that was supposed to be Broadway bound.
The New York Times (https://nyti.ms/2qY9jGj ) reports that “Rebecca” producers Ben Sprecher and Louise Forlenza had sought $10.6 million.
While they did win some damages, they lost a defamation claim against publicist Marc Thibodeau. Thibodeau had sent anonymous emails warning a prospective investor about problems with the production.
He says he’s “relieved and gratified” with the jury decision. His lawyer calls the verdict a “free speech” victory.
The producers are considering an appeal.
The production derailed in 2012 as the producers pushed for investment funds so rehearsals could begin. A stockbroker, Mark Hotton, had promised to deliver millions from investors. He ended up in jail for fraud.
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