Robert De Niro Settles in $12M Lawsuit by Former "Work Wife"

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A New York federal court jury recently ruled in favor of Graham Chase Robinson, Robert De Niro's former personal assistant, in a high-profile lawsuit against Canal Productions.

Robert De Niro (left) Graham Chase Robinson (right)Photo bythe author (licensed under CC BY 2.0)

The jury found that Robinson had experienced workplace gender discrimination and retaliation during her employment. Despite the ruling, De Niro was not held personally liable. This landmark verdict highlights the importance of addressing workplace discrimination and ensuring gender equality in all industries.

Key Takeaways:

• Graham Chase Robinson, Robert De Niro's ex-assistant, was awarded $1.2 million in a lawsuit against Canal Productions.
• The jury found Robinson had experienced workplace gender discrimination and retaliation.
• Robert De Niro was not held personally liable for the discrimination.
• The verdict emphasizes the need for addressing workplace discrimination and promoting gender equality.
• This case sets a precedent for holding companies accountable for creating a hostile work environment.

The Lawsuit Allegations

Graham Chase Robinson worked as an executive assistant at Canal Productions since 2008, has made serious allegations against renowned actor Robert De Niro, accusing him of creating a hostile work environment and subjecting her to abusive behavior. Robinson claimed that De Niro referred to her as his "work wife" and forced her to perform demeaning tasks, such as washing his sheets. She further alleged that De Niro had frequent outbursts and engaged in unwanted physical touching, including back scratches. These allegations formed the basis of Robinson's lawsuit, which ultimately resulted in a significant payout for her.

Robinson's allegations of workplace gender discrimination and harassment shed light on the disturbing realities that some individuals face in the entertainment industry. The claim that she was subjected to demeaning tasks and treated as a subordinate by De Niro highlights the power dynamics and unequal treatment that can exist in such environments. The allegations of physical touching and verbal outbursts further emphasize the importance of addressing abusive behavior and maintaining a safe and respectful work environment.

Robinson declined to comment as she left the New York federal courthouse. But, of her attorneys, David Sanford, said she was “thrilled” with the verdict.

“Not only did Ms Robinson win her case against Canal but the jury completely vindicated Ms Robinson by finding De Niro’s claims against her to be without merit".

Canal Productions, as the employer in this case, has also been implicated in creating a hostile work environment. The lawsuit has brought attention to the need for companies to take proactive measures to prevent workplace discrimination and ensure the well-being of their employees. It serves as a reminder that everyone has the right to work in an environment free from harassment, discrimination, and abusive behavior.

De Niro's Counterclaims

In response to Graham Chase Robinson's lawsuit, Robert De Niro filed a countersuit accusing her of various misconducts during her employment at Canal Productions. De Niro alleged that Robinson had misused company resources, specifically, alleging Robinsons had,

"Taken five million Delta air miles from the company, binge-watched Netflix during work hours, racked up $35,000 in unauthorised Uber trips, and paid for expensive restaurant dinners and fancy groceries on her company credit card" [first reported by Bevan Hurley].

They also had to decide whether Ms Robinson was liable for taking the frequent flyer points, breach of fiduciary duty and breach of a duty of loyalty. The jury ruled on Thursday afternoon that she was not liable.

Trial and Verdict

The trial of Graham Chase Robinson's lawsuit against Robert De Niro and Canal Productions took place in a Manhattan federal court. The courtroom proceedings allowed both parties to present their cases and provide evidence supporting their claims. Throughout the trial, De Niro's behavior and management style came under scrutiny, shedding light on the alleged workplace discrimination and abusive environment at Canal Productions.

The jury's primary task was to determine whether Canal Productions, as the employer, was liable for the workplace discrimination and retaliation experienced by Robinson. After careful consideration of the evidence presented, the jury found Canal Productions responsible for creating a discriminatory workplace environment. However, they did not hold De Niro personally responsible for these actions.

As a result of the jury's decision, Graham Chase Robinson was awarded $1.26 million in damages. This amount, although significantly less than what Robinson had sought, represents a substantial victory for her. The jury's verdict acknowledged the existence of workplace discrimination and retaliation, holding the company accountable for its actions.

De Niro was not present to hear the verdict, but his lawyer, Richard Schoenstein told The Independent outside court that the verdict was a “great victory” for the actor.

“He is absolved, he is notable for anything that was charged against him. There’s a modest award against the company, but they were looking for $12m.”

Graham Chase Robinson's Career & Motivations

Prior to her departure from Canal Productions in April 2019, Graham Chase Robinson had achieved a significant position as the vice president of production and finance, earning a salary of $300,000 per year. During the trial, Robinson revealed that she had requested equal pay with De Niro's personal trainer, who was earning $375,000. However, her request was denied, highlighting the disparity in compensation within the company.

In addition to the unequal pay, Robinson claimed that Robert De Niro refused to provide her with a severance package, letters of recommendation, or publicly announce her departure from the company. The lack of acknowledgment and compensation for her years of service played a pivotal role in her decision to take legal action against De Niro and Canal Productions.

Robinson's concerns extended beyond personal grievances, revealing her motivations to address workplace equality and fair treatment. Her lawsuit aimed to shed light on the gender discrimination and hostile work environment she experienced, not only for her own benefit but also for the broader industry. By taking a stand against powerful figures like De Niro, Robinson hoped to bring attention to and rectify the systemic issues that lead to workplace inequality for women in the entertainment industry.

While the trial focused on the specific allegations against Robert De Niro and Canal Productions, it also highlighted the larger issue of gender discrimination in high-profile workplaces. Robinson's case serves as an example of the importance of equal pay, proper severance, and professional recognition for employees at all levels. By speaking out and pursuing legal action, Robinson has become a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of workplace inequality.

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