Celebrities Who Took Their Co-Stars to Court and Sued Them

The legal landscape of Hollywood is often just as dramatic as the scripts performers bring to life on the screen. While many actors form lasting bonds during production others find themselves entangled in complex lawsuits and courtroom confrontations. These legal battles frequently arise from personal disputes contractual disagreements or allegations of misconduct that occur behind the scenes. From reality television icons to major film stars the following celebrities took their professional partners to court to seek justice or financial settlements.

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp initiated a massive defamation lawsuit against his former wife and co-star following an editorial she wrote about surviving domestic abuse. The two actors met while filming ‘The Rum Diary’ and eventually married before a contentious legal battle unfolded in Virginia. Depp claimed that the allegations cost him lucrative roles in major film franchises and damaged his professional reputation. The trial became a global media sensation with televised testimonies from both parties. A jury eventually awarded Depp millions of dollars in damages while also finding him liable for one count of defamation through his lawyer.

Amber Heard

Amber Heard filed a significant counterclaim against her former husband after he sued her for defamation. She alleged that his legal team orchestrated a smear campaign to discredit her claims of abuse during their marriage. The actors worked together on the film ‘The Rum Diary’ where their romantic relationship first began. During the legal proceedings she provided various forms of evidence to support her version of events. The court case ended with a mixed verdict that required both parties to pay damages to one another.

James Woods

James Woods took his co-star Sean Young to court in the late eighties for a staggering amount of money. The actor filed a lawsuit alleging that she had harassed him with graphic and disturbing gifts after they filmed ‘The Boost’ together. He claimed that the actress left a decapitated doll on his doorstep and engaged in various forms of psychological intimidation. Young denied the allegations and suggested that the conflict stemmed from a personal disagreement during production. The case was eventually settled out of court without any admission of guilt from the actress.

Sean Young

Sean Young faced a high profile legal battle when her former screen partner James Woods accused her of harassment and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The two performers had worked closely during the production of the drama ‘The Boost’ before their professional relationship soured. Young maintained that the lawsuit was an attempt to damage her career and personal life. The legal dispute cast a shadow over her work in the industry for several years following the settlement. She has since spoken about the difficulties of navigating the legal system while working in Hollywood.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt took legal action against his former wife and screen partner Angelina Jolie over the sale of her stake in their shared winery. The actors famously met on the set of ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’ and spent over a decade together before their separation led to multiple court battles. Pitt alleged that Jolie intentionally kept him in the dark about her business dealings with a third party investor. He claimed the sale violated their previous agreement regarding the management of the French estate. The legal conflict over the property and its associated profits has continued for several years.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie filed a countersuit against her co-star Brad Pitt as part of an ongoing dispute over their business ventures and personal history. The actress alleged that her former partner had been physically and verbally abusive during a private flight in 2016. These claims emerged during the legal battle over their winery which they had purchased together during their relationship. Jolie argued that she sought to sell her share of the business to gain financial independence and move away from the conflict. The court documents provided a detailed look into the private struggles of the high profile couple.

Channing Tatum

Channing Tatum is currently involved in a long standing legal battle with his former co-star Jenna Dewan regarding the division of assets. The performers met and fell in love while filming the dance movie ‘Step Up’ early in their careers. The primary point of contention in the lawsuit involves the profits generated by the ‘Magic Mike’ franchise which Tatum starred in and produced. Dewan claims that the intellectual property was developed during their marriage and entitles her to a portion of the earnings. The court proceedings have revealed the financial complexities of maintaining a major media brand after a divorce.

Jenna Dewan

Jenna Dewan filed legal documents to ensure she receives a fair share of the profits from the successful ‘Magic Mike’ series. She argues that the concept for the films and stage shows was created while she was still married to her co-star Channing Tatum. The two actors shared the screen in ‘Step Up’ and were seen as a quintessential Hollywood couple for many years. Dewan has asked the court to determine the exact value of the business assets to facilitate a final settlement. Her legal team insists that the work performed during the marriage contributed to the global success of the franchise.

Roseanne Barr

Roseanne Barr engaged in a public and bitter legal battle with her former husband and frequent collaborator Tom Arnold. The two appeared together on the hit sitcom ‘Roseanne’ where their professional and personal lives were deeply intertwined. After their divorce became final they fought over various contractual agreements and personal belongings in court. Barr alleged that Arnold used their relationship to further his own career interests at her expense. The legal fallout from their split was a major tabloid story throughout the early nineties.

Tom Arnold

Tom Arnold faced multiple lawsuits from his former wife Roseanne Barr after their partnership on ‘Roseanne’ ended in a divorce. He was a writer and actor on the show during the height of its popularity in the television ratings. Arnold counter sued for a share of the assets they had accumulated during their time as a power couple in the industry. The legal proceedings were marked by intense personal animosity and public accusations. Ultimately the two moved on to separate projects but their court battles remained a defining moment in their careers.

Joanna Krupa

Joanna Krupa filed a lawsuit against her reality television co-star Brandi Glanville for defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The model took legal action after Glanville made derogatory comments about her personal hygiene during a televised talk show appearance. Both women were featured in ‘The Real Housewives of Miami’ franchise where they often clashed on screen. Krupa sought damages for the harm caused to her reputation and professional modeling career. The case was eventually settled after several years of legal maneuvering and public statements.

Brandi Glanville

Brandi Glanville was sued by her former co-star Joanna Krupa for making disparaging remarks during a broadcast of ‘Watch What Happens Live’. The actress and reality personality was known for her outspoken nature on ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’. She defended her statements as being part of the exaggerated persona required for reality television entertainment. The legal battle required depositions and evidence regarding the truthfulness of the claims made on camera. Glanville eventually issued a public apology as part of the settlement agreement.

NeNe Leakes

NeNe Leakes took her former co-star Kim Zolciak Biermann and various production companies to court over allegations of a hostile work environment. The original star of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ claimed she was subjected to racial discrimination during her long tenure on the show. She alleged that her co-stars made insensitive comments that were ignored by the producers and network executives. Leakes sought to hold the industry accountable for what she described as systemic issues in reality television production. The lawsuit was eventually dismissed but sparked significant conversation about diversity in entertainment.

Kim Zolciak

Kim Zolciak Biermann was named as a defendant in a lawsuit filed by her longtime screen partner NeNe Leakes. The two women had a complex relationship that spanned many seasons of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ and their own spin off specials. Zolciak Biermann denied the allegations of racism and insisted that her comments were misinterpreted or taken out of context. The legal proceedings highlighted the intense rivalries that often define the success of reality television programs. She maintained her innocence throughout the duration of the court case.

Shia LaBeouf

Shia LaBeouf was sued by his former girlfriend and co-star FKA Twigs for sexual battery and assault. The two met during the production of the film ‘Honey Boy’ where they played significant roles in the autobiographical story. The lawsuit alleged that LaBeouf engaged in a pattern of abusive behavior throughout their relationship. He was accused of physical violence and emotional manipulation that caused lasting trauma to the singer and actress. LaBeouf later addressed the allegations by acknowledging his past struggles with substance abuse and personal conduct.

FKA Twigs

FKA Twigs took the brave step of filing a lawsuit against her former co-star Shia LaBeouf to bring attention to domestic abuse. The performer starred alongside him in ‘Honey Boy’ and began a relationship that she later described as incredibly dangerous. Her legal filing detailed specific incidents of violence and control that occurred during their time together. She stated that her goal was to warn other women and seek justice for the harm she suffered. The case has been a significant part of the ongoing conversation regarding accountability in the film industry.

James Franco

James Franco faced a lawsuit from several of his former students and co-stars who accused him of sexual exploitation. The plaintiffs had worked with him on projects like ‘The Long Home’ and were members of his now defunct acting school. They alleged that the actor used his power and influence to pressure them into uncomfortable situations during filming. Franco denied the allegations of non consensual behavior but eventually reached a multi million dollar settlement. The legal battle led to a significant pause in his acting and directing career.

Jon Gosselin

Jon Gosselin was involved in numerous legal battles with his former wife and co-star Kate Gosselin after their reality show became a massive hit. The couple rose to fame on ‘Jon and Kate Plus 8’ where they documented the challenges of raising a large family. After their separation they went to court over issues involving custody and the filming of their children for television. Jon sued to prevent the kids from appearing on camera without his explicit consent. The court cases were often played out in the media with both sides making public accusations.

Kate Gosselin

Kate Gosselin took legal action against her former husband Jon Gosselin for allegedly hacking into her personal computer and stealing information. The reality star claimed that her co-star intended to use the data to write a tell all book about their marriage. They had previously shared the screen for years before their relationship ended in a very public divorce. Kate also fought him in court over child support payments and the division of their earnings from their television work. Her legal efforts were focused on maintaining her career and protecting her children from media exploitation.

Bethenny Frankel

Bethenny Frankel endured a years long legal battle with her former husband and reality co-star Jason Hoppy. The two met and married on camera during the production of ‘Bethenny Getting Married’ which was a spin off of her original show. The legal conflict involved a difficult divorce followed by accusations of stalking and harassment. Frankel sought a restraining order and custody of their daughter through the court system. The case highlighted the dark side of finding romance and building a brand on reality television.

Audrina Patridge

Audrina Patridge filed for a restraining order and a divorce from her husband Corey Bohan after a series of domestic incidents. The two appeared together on the reality series ‘The Hills’ and its various reboots over the years. Patridge went to court to seek full custody of their daughter and to protect herself from what she described as abusive behavior. The legal filings detailed specific threats and emotional outbursts that occurred during their marriage. The court granted her requests to ensure the safety of her family during the transition.

Tamra Judge

Tamra Judge faced a million dollar defamation lawsuit from a man whose wife had appeared alongside her on ‘The Real Housewives of Orange County’. The plaintiff claimed that Judge statements about his business were false and had caused him financial harm. Judge argued that her comments were either true or protected opinions shared in a public forum. The legal battle required her to spend a substantial amount of money on her defense. Ultimately the court found that the plaintiff had not proven his case and the lawsuit was dismissed.

Kenya Moore

Kenya Moore was involved in legal action after a physical altercation with her co-star Porsha Williams during a reunion special. The actress and reality star reported the incident to the police and sought to hold Williams accountable for the attack. The two women were prominent figures on ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ and had a history of verbal sparring. Moore decision to involve the legal system was met with mixed reactions from her fellow cast members. The case resulted in a warrant being issued and a formal legal process.

Porsha Williams

Porsha Williams faced legal consequences after she physically confronted her co-star Kenya Moore on national television. She was charged with misdemeanor battery following the complaint filed by her screen partner. Williams had to surrender to the authorities and appear in court to address the allegations. Her legal team argued that she had been provoked by Moore use of props and verbal insults during the filming. The incident remains one of the most famous legal disputes in the history of reality television.

Kathryn Edwards

Kathryn Edwards was involved in a legal dispute regarding the contents of a book written by her co-star Faye Resnick. The conflict was a primary storyline during her season on ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’. Edwards took issue with the way she was portrayed in the memoir which was published years before she joined the show. She sought legal advice on how to address the claims and protect her name from further disparagement. The tension between the two women culminated in several heated confrontations on camera.

Faye Resnick

Faye Resnick faced legal threats and public scrutiny from Kathryn Edwards over a book she wrote in the nineties. The two women became co-stars on a popular reality show where their past connections were brought to light. Resnick defended her writing as an accurate account of her life and experiences at the time. The legal tension added a layer of realism to the show as they navigated their shared social circle. Resnick maintained that she had no intention of causing harm but stood by her published work.

Taylor Armstrong

Taylor Armstrong was involved in various legal matters related to her late husband who had appeared as her co-star on reality television. She faced lawsuits from business associates who claimed they were defrauded by the couple. Armstrong had to navigate these court cases while also dealing with the personal tragedy of her husband death. Her legal team worked to settle the claims and protect her remaining assets for her daughter. The legal fallout was a significant part of her narrative on the show as she attempted to rebuild her life.

Paul Nassif

Paul Nassif engaged in a series of legal disputes with his former wife Adrienne Maloof after they stopped filming together. The prominent plastic surgeon was a fan favorite on reality television but faced difficult challenges in the courtroom. He fought for custody of their three sons and defended himself against the claims made during the divorce. The legal process was often interrupted by the intense media coverage of their split. Nassif eventually transitioned to his own successful television program after the court matters were resolved.

Kelsey Grammer

Kelsey Grammer faced a significant legal challenge from his former wife and screen partner Camille Grammer. The award winning actor was a central figure in the reality show that chronicled the end of his marriage. He was required to disclose his financial earnings and participate in lengthy court proceedings regarding their property. Grammer eventually remarried and sought to put the legal battles behind him. The case is often cited as one of the most expensive celebrity divorces in Hollywood history.

Linda Hogan

Linda Hogan sued her former husband Hulk Hogan for a large portion of their marital assets after decades of marriage. The two starred together in the reality series ‘Hogan Knows Best’ which followed their family life. Linda alleged that her husband had been unfaithful and had hidden assets from her during the legal process. She also filed defamation suits related to comments he made in his autobiography. The court awarded her a significant percentage of their combined wealth in the final settlement.

Hulk Hogan

Hulk Hogan was taken to court by his wife and reality co-star Linda Hogan during a bitter divorce process. The wrestling legend had to navigate the loss of a large portion of his net worth as a result of the legal proceedings. He also faced lawsuits from other parties during this time which complicated his financial situation. Hogan eventually filed his own legal actions to protect his brand and image. The legal drama was a central theme in the later years of his reality television career.

Denise Richards

Denise Richards took her former husband and co-star Charlie Sheen to court over child support and the management of their children trust funds. The two appeared together in the film ‘Good Advice’ and the sitcom ‘Spin City’ during their relationship. Richards alleged that Sheen had failed to meet his financial obligations and had acted inappropriately toward her. She sought the help of the legal system to ensure her daughters were provided for. The court cases were often fueled by Sheen public outbursts and legal troubles.

Charlie Sheen

Charlie Sheen faced multiple lawsuits from his former wife Denise Richards regarding their family and financial arrangements. The two had a long history of working together in the industry before their personal lives became a staple of tabloid news. Sheen often used social media to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings and express his frustration. His legal team worked to defend him against the claims while he managed other career ending controversies. The court battles between the two co-stars lasted for over a decade.

Melanie Griffith

Melanie Griffith filed for divorce from her longtime husband and co-star Antonio Banderas citing irreconcilable differences in their legal documents. The two famously worked together on the comedy ‘Two Much’ where their relationship first began to develop. The court proceedings involved the division of their various properties and a complex collection of professional assets. Griffith requested primary physical custody of their daughter as part of the legal filing. The case was resolved amicably after nearly twenty years of marriage.

Antonio Banderas

Antonio Banderas navigated a high profile legal separation from his former screen partner Melanie Griffith. The actors were known for their chemistry on and off screen after meeting during the production of ‘Two Much’. Their legal battle focused on the equitable distribution of their earnings and real estate holdings across multiple countries. Banderas remained private about the details of the court case to protect his family from media intrusion. The final judgment allowed both stars to maintain their professional and personal independence.

Tori Spelling

Tori Spelling faced various legal challenges involving her husband and reality television co-star Dean McDermott. The couple documented their financial and marital struggles on the series ‘True Tori’ for several seasons. Spelling was taken to court by several banks and credit card companies over unpaid debts totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars. She also navigated legal filings related to child support and domestic disputes during their time on camera. These court cases were a significant part of her public narrative as she managed a large family and a declining brand.

Dean McDermott

Dean McDermott was involved in numerous legal battles while filming reality television with his wife Tori Spelling. He faced potential jail time over unpaid child support to his former spouse during the production of their hit show. The actor and reality star also dealt with lawsuits from financial institutions regarding shared marital debts. His legal troubles were often highlighted in episodes of ‘Chopped Canada’ and other programs he appeared in. The court proceedings put a significant strain on his relationship with his co-star and their children.

Kim Basinger

Kim Basinger engaged in a famously contentious legal battle with her former husband and co-star Alec Baldwin. The two actors met on the set of ‘The Marrying Man’ and shared the screen again in the remake of ‘The Getaway’. Their divorce led to an eight year court struggle over the custody of their daughter. Basinger was accused of violating court orders regarding visitation rights which led to further legal penalties. The intensity of their courtroom confrontations became a symbol of the difficulties of celebrity parenting.

Alec Baldwin

Alec Baldwin spent years in the court system fighting for visitation rights with his former co-star Kim Basinger. The legal battle followed their high profile divorce and was marked by frequent appearances before a judge. Baldwin wrote a book about his experiences navigating the family court system after his time on ‘The Marrying Man’. He alleged that the legal process was biased and caused unnecessary harm to his relationship with his child. The case eventually concluded but left a lasting impact on his public image and career.

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