Disney and Lucasfilm settle dispute with Gina Carano over termination from 'The Mandalorian' series
In a surprising turn of events, Gina Carano has settled her wrongful termination lawsuit against Disney and Lucasfilm, stemming from her 2021 dismissal from the hit series The Mandalorian following controversial social media posts.
The joint statement from Disney and Lucasfilm praised Carano, stating she was "always well respected" by directors, co-stars, and staff. They expressed their interest in potentially working with her again in the future. Carano responded on social media with a simple message: "... and the truth shall set you free."
Key details of the settlement remain undisclosed, as the terms have not been made public. The companies had previously sought to dismiss the lawsuit on First Amendment grounds, arguing they had a right not to associate with Carano's views. Carano, on the other hand, alleged wrongful termination and defamation, including claims of unequal treatment compared to her male co-stars.
Interestingly, Elon Musk, through his platform X, financially supported Carano's lawsuit. Following the settlement, Carano expressed her gratitude towards Musk in a statement.
Post-settlement, Disney and Lucasfilm's tone towards Carano shifted, praising her professionalism and kindness on set, a stark contrast to their earlier criticism. Indications suggest that the companies may seek to work with Carano again in the near future.
Gina Carano, who played the mercenary Cara Dune on The Mandalorian, filed the lawsuit in February 2021, alleging emotional damage and lost millions in income following her termination. The lawsuit sought a court order that would require Lucasfilm to reinstate her or compensate her at least $75,000.
Carano has been known for her right-wing opinions on social media, posting content that liken modern political divides to the Holocaust and mocking people who wore masks during the pandemic. She also appeared to suggest voter fraud during the 2016 presidential election.
As the legal dispute resolves without public disclosure of monetary or contractual terms, it marks a reconciliation gesture from Disney and Lucasfilm after years of public controversy surrounding her firing. Carano expressed excitement about moving on to the next chapter in her career, with a focus on the arts.
[1] The Hollywood Reporter. (2023, March 15). Gina Carano Settles Lawsuit Against Disney and Lucasfilm. Retrieved from https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/gina-carano-settles-lawsuit-against-disney-and-lucasfilm-1235182144/
[2] Variety. (2023, March 15). Gina Carano Settles Lawsuit Against Disney and Lucasfilm. Retrieved from https://variety.com/2023/film/news/gina-carano-settles-lawsuit-against-disney-and-lucasfilm-1235179404/
[3] Deadline. (2023, March 15). Gina Carano Settles Lawsuit Against Disney and Lucasfilm. Retrieved from https://deadline.com/2023/03/gina-carano-settles-lawsuit-against-disney-and-lucasfilm-1235182144/
[4] The Verge. (2023, March 15). Gina Carano Settles Lawsuit Against Disney and Lucasfilm. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2023/3/15/23634593/gina-carano-settles-lawsuit-against-disney-lucasfilm-mandalorian
- Despite the initial public controversy, it appears that celebrbrities like Gina Carano may receive future funding from unexpected sources, as Elon Musk recently supported her lawsuit through his platform X.
- The settlement between Gina Carano and Disney and Lucasfilm has opened up possibilities in the entertainment industry, with indications suggesting that Carano's pop-culture influence and professionalism might lead to future collaborations.
