Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel sue Heat magazine over a story that was published last month. The two entertainers are looking for a quick resolution.
A Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel lawsuit filed in Ireland is reminding people that tabloids can not get away with everything. Timberlake and his wife’s defamation claim comes after British gossip magazine, Heat attributed some quotes to the 32-year-old actress. The alleged infringing piece also contained photographs. According to NewsOXY, the media is not allowed to report on the specific details of the case at the moment.
Timberlake and Biel are represented in Europe by Paul Tweed who works for Johnsons Solicitors. Tweed confirmed that documents have been filed regarding the proceedings. The couple has opted to lodge separate suits in Dublin’s High Court on Wednesday. The lawyer said:
“We have issued defamation proceedings on behalf of our clients, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel, in relation to an article and a headline in Heat magazine. We are suing in Ireland in relation to publication in all jurisdictions, as our clients are entitled to do.”
Heat magazine is one of the biggest magazines in the United Kingdom, it is published in different European countries and South Africa. Heat‘s publisher is a German media company called Bauer Media Group that had over $3 billion in revenue for the year 2013. Bauer Media Group has close to 11,000 employees in 18 countries. The media giant is named in the proceedings.
So, why are two American celebrities suing a German magazine publisher in Ireland? Timberlake and Biel say that their reputation has been tarnished by the story in a country where they enjoy a huge popularity. The tabloid is also quite popular in “The Emerald Isle.” Irish courts are considered quicker in dealing with such cases. The couple’s legal counselor confirmed this theory, he stated:
“They would want to get vindication as soon as possible.”
The Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel lawsuit for defamation is expected to be addressed by Dublin’s High Court next summer, at best. A settlement could be reached before things get there.
