Victory For Gina Carano: Judge Denies Disney's Dismissal Attempt, Her Lawsuit Will Proceed
In a significant victory for Gina Carano and free speech advocates, a judge has denied Disney's attempts to dismiss Carano's lawsuit against them.
Carano, known for her role as Cara Dune in the first two seasons of the popular Star Wars series The Mandalorian, filed a lawsuit against the entertainment giant in February 2024 for discrimination related to her dismissal in 2021.
Carano was fired after making a social media post that highlighted the link between the political propaganda disseminated before the Holocaust to the kinds of rhetoric political progressives were using to enforce mandates and lockdowns. Carano, with the assistance of tech mogul Elon Musk, who helped fund her legal battle, sued Disney for discrimination and violating her right to express her personal political beliefs.
In April, Disney argued that it had a First Amendment right to dissociate from Carano due to her controversial social media posts. However, Carano's lawsuit contends that Disney retaliated against her for expressing her political views, a violation of California law protecting political activity.
In the most recent ruling, Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett emphasized the lack of evidence from Disney to support their claim that Carano's continued employment would harm their values of "respect," "decency," "integrity," or "inclusion."
The judge noted, "At this stage in the litigation, the Court cannot conclude, as Defendants urge it to, that Plaintiff’s continued employment by Defendants would inhibit or intrude upon Defendants’ rights to expressive association."
Carano expressed her profound gratitude for the ruling on Instagram, quoting the judge's decisive words: "The court DENIES defendants' motion."
She described her emotional reaction, writing, "I am moved to tears. After a brutal 3 1/2 years, I am being given the opportunity to move forward in the court of law before the judge and my peers to clear my name. I am so grateful for this opportunity."
Carano also reflected on the challenges she faced, stating, "I quite literally fought to get to where I got to in my career through intense ups and downs, and I'll keep up that fight to continue doing what I love. I appreciate all of you who stood by me and defended me, and I am so sorry that similar situations have happened to some of you. I want you to know that I see you and I stand with you."
In her statement, Carano extended her thanks to Elon Musk, expressing deep appreciation for his unexpected support. "Thank you to Elon Musk, a man I have never even met, who so graciously gave me a fighting chance. Thank you for standing for justice for all of humanity. May God bless you and your family for years to come because He has chosen you for such a time as this. ❤️"
She also shared a clip from her 2021 interview with Ben Shapiro, reflecting on the difficult period following her firing and her hopes for justice. She said, "I was wounded and in so much pain, but I feel that pain lifting now. I pray for justice to shine through this case. It's been one heck of a life. I am looking forward to getting back to the art of storytelling and doing my part to help the world heal."
Adding to the controversy surrounding Disney, Carano recently called out Jack Black and his Tenacious D bandmate Kyle Gass on X. The duo went viral for expressing hope that former President Donald Trump would be assassinated in the future.
Carano highlighted the political double standards at Disney by stating, "Enjoy the privilege of keeping your jobs." Hours later, Black walked back his anti-Trump antics, but, as of now, Disney hasn't taken any disciplinary action against him or other employees who have made divisive remarks.
While a trial date has yet to be set, this ruling allows Carano to present her case and seek justice. Her lawsuit, which demands reinstatement in The Mandalorian and damages of at least $75,000, also states that Disney and Lucasfilm engaged in harassment and defamation.
As the battle continues, Carano's and Musk's determination to stand up for free speech stands as a testament to their fighting spirit, especially as powerful entities like Disney struggle to keep control of political narratives.
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