Jennifer Lopez’s production company is being sued by the woman who inspired the star’s new film, Hustlers.
Samantha Barbash claims Lopez’s Nuyorican Productions used her likeness and story without her permission, and defamed her in the film, according to TMZ. The ex-stripper says she was asked for her consent, but alleges she did not give it.
In the lawsuit, Barbash says one particular scene in which she is depicted “using and manufacturing illegal substances in her home where she lived with her child” is false and offensive. The lawsuit accuses the portrayal of Ramona as “grossly irresponsible”.
Barbash is seeking $20 million in punitive damages and $20 million in compensatory — and wants the company to turn over every copy of the movie.
The film was based on a 2015 New York magazine article, which included the real-life Barbash. The acclaimed movie focuses on a group of New York strippers who extricated money from their clients by drugging them.
Lopez is yet to comment on the claims. The actress, who said she wasn’t paid for her work on the film, not only starred in the movie, but she also produced it. Hustlers, which made $148.5 million (£113.8 million) worldwide, is expected to lead to an Oscars nod for the actress.
From Harper’s Bazaar UK
