Director James Toback Ordered to Pay $2.3 Million in Damages, Not $1.7 Billion, to Woman Who Accused Him of Sexual Assault

A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge has ordered film director James Toback to pay $2.3 million in damages to a woman who accused him of sexual assault. The verdict, which was handed down on October 25, 2022, brings closure to a long and tumultuous case that has been ongoing for several years.

James Toback, the 78-year-old director of films such as "The Pick-up Artist" and "Two Girls and a Guy," was accused of sexual assault by over 300 women, including actresses, models, and other industry professionals. The accusations, which were first reported in 2017, alleged that Toback had engaged in a pattern of behavior that included groping, masturbation, and other forms of unwanted physical contact.

The woman who brought the lawsuit against Toback, which led to the $2.3 million verdict, alleged that the director had assaulted her on multiple occasions, including at a hotel in Los Angeles. The woman, who remains anonymous, claimed that Toback's actions had caused her significant emotional distress and had damaged her career.

Toback has denied all allegations of wrongdoing, claiming that the women who accused him were lying or misremembering their interactions with him. However, the court's verdict suggests that the judge found the plaintiff's testimony to be credible and that Toback's actions were indeed egregious.

The $2.3 million verdict is a significant victory for the plaintiff and for the hundreds of other women who have accused Toback of similar behavior. It sends a strong message that perpetrators of sexual assault will be held accountable for their actions and that victims will be believed and supported.

The case against Toback is part of a larger movement to hold powerful men in the entertainment industry accountable for their actions. In recent years, numerous high-profile figures, including Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, and Louis C.K., have been accused of sexual misconduct, leading to a reckoning in the industry and a shift in the way that women's allegations are received and treated.

While the verdict in the Toback case is a positive step forward, it is also a reminder that there is still much work to be done to address the systemic issues that allow perpetrators of sexual assault to operate with impunity. It is only by continuing to listen to and support survivors, and by holding perpetrators accountable, that we can create a safer and more just society for all.

In conclusion, the $2.3 million verdict against James Toback is a significant victory for the woman who brought the lawsuit and for the hundreds of other women who have accused him of similar behavior. It is a reminder that perpetrators of sexual assault will be held accountable for their actions and that victims will be believed and supported. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals and work towards creating a society that is free from sexual violence and harassment.

What's Next for James Toback?

It is unclear what's next for James Toback, but the verdict is likely to have significant consequences for his career and personal life. Toback's reputation has already been severely damaged by the allegations against him, and the $2.3 million verdict is likely to further erode his standing in the entertainment industry.

Support for Survivors

If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, there are resources available to help. The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 and can be reached at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). Additionally, the National Sex Offender Public Website provides information and resources for survivors of sexual assault.