Just for Laughs founder Gilbert Rozon dropped his defamation lawsuit on Thursday against Radio-Canada host Pénélope McQuade and Noovo host Julie Snyder.
Rozon filed the lawsuit after both women made public allegations against him in 2020 regarding sexual assault. He sought $450,000 in damages, alleging defamation.
Related:
The lawsuit was withdrawn following an out-of-court settlement reached in recent days.
“An agreement has been reached between the parties, resulting in the mutual discontinuance of their respective actions,” said Rozon in a press release. “The people concerned have already had the opportunity to testify and present their version of the facts before the Honourable Justice Chantal Tremblay. I do not believe that it is desirable or appropriate to re-engage the judiciary and public resources to reiterate versions that have already been heard. No further comment will be made.
Following the defamation suit brought by Rozon, McQuade filed a counterclaim alleging abuse of process. She said the resolution marks the end of a lengthy legal process.
“My legal battle, which began nearly 10 years ago, ends today,” said McQudeshses. “For me, this is an important chapter that is closing and I feel an indescribable relief. But this is not the case for all the victims who exist in our society and I remain in solidarity as on the first day of their suffering and admire their courage to have what they have suffered recognized. “
In Quebec, Pénélope McQuade was among the first public figures to speak out publicly in the context of the #MoiAussi movement.
Julie Snyder said in a statement:
“In 2020, I was the subject of a defamation lawsuit by Gilbert Rozon in relation to my denunciation of the sexual acts that I accuse him of and that he denies to this day. For nearly six years, I have been challenging this proceeding by way of a counterclaim for abuse of process, arguing that my information is legitimate and truthful.I had the opportunity to give my version of the facts before the Honourable Justice Chantal Tremblay in the context of the actions brought against Gilbert Rozon by the Courageuses and the court should render its judgment soon. In this context, the parties decided to terminate the case. I hope that the Court’s resources saved will be used for other cases whose victims have not yet been heard. Finally, I would like to express a thought of solidarity to all survivors of sexual violence. To those who recognize themselves in these issues: you are not alone, and your word deserves to be received with respect and humanity”
