Netflix’s motion to dismiss Nona Gaprindashvili’s claim has been denied by the Judge - Law Firm BLB reports. According to them, The Judge did not accept arguments provided by Netflix with regards to the protection of freedom of speech. "Law Firm BLB would like to congratulate the entire country of Georgia Mrs. Nona Gaprindashvili’s remarkable victory in the State of California! US! We congratulate you on this historic victory!", - BLB said.
The fifth women's world chess champion seeks over USD 5 million in damages for what the suit claims is a "devastating falsehood, undermining and degrading her accomplishments before an audience of many millions." The lawsuit is about a line in the last episode of the highly successful series - The Queen’s Gambit - that won two Golden Globes earlier last year.
While the main protagonist is playing a tournament in Moscow, a commentator says: "The only unusual thing about her, really, is her sex, and even that’s not unique in Russia”. There's Nona Gaprindashvili, but she’s the female world champion and has never faced men. In September, Netflix refused to remove the disputed reference from the series, informing Gaprindashvili's representatives the company would not apologize for the selection of the description either.
This case is being discussed worldwide. For instance, Variety writes an article with the headline - Netflix Must Face “Queen’s Gambit” Lawsuit From Chess Great, cSays. Author says that A judge refused to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a Georgian chess master. Journalist also mentions that Netflix declined to comment on the ruling.
“Netflix sought to have the suit dismissed, arguing that the show is a work of fiction, and that the First Amendment gives show creators broad artistic license. But in a ruling on Thursday, the Judge disagreed, finding that Gaprindashvili had made a plausible argument that she was defamed. Phillips also held that works of fiction are not immune from defamation suits if they disparage real people”, - writes international media.
Netflix can appeal this decision within a month. Georgian chess player Nona Gaprindashvili filed a lawsuit against Netflix in September last year
