Robert De Niro and Graham Chase Robinson Face Off in Court Over Misconduct Claims
Hollywood actor Robert De Niro and his former executive assistant Graham Chase Robinson are currently involved in a legal battle at Manhattan federal court. Robinson has accused De Niro of subjecting her to years of gender discrimination and harassment, while De Niro’s counterclaim alleges financial misconduct, including the misuse of company frequent-flier miles. This high-profile trial is expected to last for two weeks, captivating audiences with its dishy and dramatic proceedings.
Adding to the intrigue, De Niro’s girlfriend, Tiffany Chen, recently gave birth to their baby, and Robinson has suggested that Chen played a role in her mistreatment. Text messages between De Niro and Chen may even be presented as evidence during the trial, shedding light on their complex relationship dynamics.
Let’s delve into the details of this legal dispute, including De Niro’s first day on the witness stand. Robinson began working for De Niro’s company, Canal Productions, in 2008, aspiring to establish a successful career in the entertainment industry. Although she received promotions over the years, rising to the role of vice-president of production and finance in 2017, Robinson claims that her professional journey was marred by De Niro’s abusive behavior.
The lawsuit filed by Robinson in October 2019 provides extensive details of her allegations. She claims that De Niro verbally attacked her using derogatory language, denigrated her in drunk tirades, and engaged in inappropriate and demeaning conduct. She also highlights instances where De Niro treated her as his “office wife,” assigning her menial tasks despite her elevated title.
Furthermore, Robinson alleges that De Niro subjected her to unwanted physical contact and exposed himself during telephone calls. She claims that he even allowed his friend to slap her on the buttocks. Robinson also states that she was underpaid and denied overtime wages in violation of labor laws.
On the other hand, De Niro vehemently denies all allegations of misconduct. In his counterclaim, he accuses Robinson of financial misconduct and asserts that her gender did not impact her compensation, highlighting that she was one of the highest-paid employees at Canal.
De Niro’s company’s lawsuit, filed in August 2019, alleges that Robinson misused company funds, including personal expenses charged to corporate credit cards and the improper conversion of frequent-flier miles. It also accuses her of loafing during work hours and using working time to binge-watch Netflix shows.
Robinson contends that De Niro’s August 2019 lawsuit was nothing more than retaliation and an attempt to prevent her from pursuing discrimination claims. She claims that when she asked De Niro for a recommendation for her business school application, his lawyers presented her with a legal release that would prevent her from taking any legal action against him. Upon requesting time to consult with an attorney, Robinson alleges that De Niro’s lawyer became aggressive and accused her of misconduct.
Robinson’s lawyer informed De Niro’s team about potential legal claims, including sexual discrimination, stereotyping, and retaliation, to which Robinson expressed her intention to litigate these matters. However, De Niro responded by filing a $6 million lawsuit against her, which Robinson perceives as further retaliation to hinder her pursuit of justice. She asserts that none of the allegations made by Canal were raised prior to her resignation.
Throughout the ongoing trial, both De Niro and Robinson have vehemently stood by their respective claims. The courtroom exchanges between De Niro’s lawyer and Robinson’s attorney have heightened tension as they navigate the details of Robinson’s job responsibilities, including her involvement in De Niro’s personal life, such as taking care of his pets and corresponding with his divorce attorneys.
As this sensational legal battle continues to capture media attention, the outcome of the trial remains uncertain. Will justice be served, or will these dueling allegations leave more questions than answers? Only time will tell.
