- In documents filed on Friday, the BBC requested subpoenas for Trump's children and son-in-law, arguing they have personal knowledge of events that could reveal Mr Trump's intention behind his speech.
- Trump's legal team accused the BBC of harassment and abusing the deposition process, stating that the BBC intentionally defamed him.
- A judge on Tuesday ruled that Mr Trump could amend his lawsuit, which opens the door to expanding the case.
- Earlier this week, the BBC admitted that the case was in Florida after previously claiming it was not.
- In February, BBC's lawyers argued that the case should be thrown out for lack of proof that the Panorama special aired in Florida.
The BBC is embroiled in a defamation lawsuit filed by Donald Trump, who claims the broadcaster's Panorama documentary misrepresented his January 6 speech, causing significant reputational harm.
The BBC previously apologized for an "error in judgment" regarding the documentary, which was subsequently removed from all platforms.
Trump's legal team asserts, “The BBC intentionally defamed President Donald J Trump, and now the BBC is seeking to harass him, his family, and supporters by abusing the deposition process.”2
In response, the BBC's lawyers argue that Trump's children possess crucial knowledge about the events of January 6, which could clarify his intentions during the speech.
However, attempts to serve subpoenas to Trump's family have been thwarted by the US Secret Service, which restricts access to the president's immediate family.1
Trump has refused to accept subpoenas on behalf of his children and son-in-law, complicating the legal proceedings.
The allegations surrounding the documentary's editing led to the resignation of Tim Davie, the then BBC director-general.
Originally, Trump sought $10 billion in damages, but later narrowed his claim to reputational harm.
A judge recently ruled that Trump could amend his lawsuit, allowing him to expand his case further. A trial date has been set for February 2027 in Florida.3
“The BBC's lawyers argue Trump's children 'without question have personal knowledge' of events that could reveal his intent, but the Secret Service has barred access to them. Trump previously refused to accept subpoenas on their behalf, and a trial is set for February 2027 in Florida.”
