In a landmark ruling, a New York jury has ordered disgraced filmmaker James Toback to pay an unprecedented $1.6 billion in damages to 40 women who have accused him of sexual assault over several decades. This verdict, delivered on April 9, 2023, is considered one of the largest civil judgments for sexual assault in New York State history, providing a significant victory for the victims who have long sought justice.
The plaintiffs, whose allegations date back to the 1970s, described a pattern of behavior by Toback that included coercion, threats, and sexual assault in various locations, from hotel rooms to private apartments and even the prestigious Harvard Club of New York City. The lead plaintiff, Mary Monahan, expressed profound relief and empowerment, stating, “For decades, I carried this trauma in silence, and today a jury believed me. This verdict is more than a number; it’s a declaration that we are not disposable.”
James Toback, now 80 years old, is known for his work on films such as “Bugsy” and “Two Girls and a Guy.” He was one of the first high-profile figures to be accused during the MeToo movement nearly a decade ago, following an exposé in the Los Angeles Times. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Toback did not mount a defense in this civil case and has not publicly commented on the verdict.
The lawsuit was filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which allowed survivors a one-year window to bring claims that had previously been barred by statutes of limitations. This law was enacted in 2022, leading to over 3,000 lawsuits being filed within the year, including high-profile cases against other celebrities.
The allegations against Toback detail a calculated “playbook” of predatory behavior over four decades. The lawsuit claims he would approach women in high-traffic areas, presenting himself as a successful director to gain their trust. Many victims recounted how he lured them into isolated meetings under the guise of auditions, only to subject them to humiliating and abusive sexual advances.
Plaintiffs described scenarios where Toback exploited their vulnerability, framing sexual acts as part of the audition process. The lawsuit outlines a disturbing cycle of abuse that included initial approaches, trust-building, isolation, coercion, and ultimately, threats to ensure silence. Some women reported Toback threatening them with career ruin or even violence if they spoke out.
In court, Toback represented himself and did not appear to contest the allegations effectively, leading to a default judgment against him. The jury’s decision included $280 million in compensatory damages and an astounding $1.4 billion in punitive damages, signaling a strong condemnation of Toback’s conduct.
This ruling not only holds Toback accountable but also serves as a broader statement about the culture of silence that has historically protected powerful individuals in Hollywood. Attorneys representing the plaintiffs emphasized that this case highlights the need for continued vigilance against abuse and the importance of empowering survivors to speak out.
As the legal proceedings conclude, the implications of this verdict resonate far beyond the courtroom, reminding society that accountability for sexual misconduct is long overdue and that survivors deserve to be heard and believed.