Amazon Hit With Defamation Suit Over ‘Hollywood Hustler’ Documentary

A recent lawsuit has been filed by producer Julio Hallivis against Amazon Studios, Vice Studios, and director Rebecca Chaiklin. The lawsuit alleges that he was falsely portrayed in the documentary series “Hollywood Hustler: Glitz, Glam, Scam” as an accomplice to convicted fraudster Zach Horwitz.

Horwitz is currently serving a 20-year sentence for his involvement in a $650 million Ponzi scheme. The lawsuit claims that Hallivis’ reputation has been damaged by the implication that he was complicit in Horwitz’s crimes.

Hallivis, who was Horwitz’s business partner in 1inMM Productions, asserts that he had no knowledge of the Ponzi scheme until Horwitz’s arrest. The documentary series allegedly suggests that Hallivis was involved in the fraud, leading to the destruction of his reputation and career.

Despite declining to be interviewed for the documentary, Hallivis argues that he is a private figure and therefore defamation claims should be easier to prove. The documentary includes interviews and commentary that imply Hallivis was aware of Horwitz’s criminal activities.

The lawsuit also addresses statements made in the documentary by civil attorney Alex Loftus, who suggested that Hallivis may have been involved in the scheme. These statements have led to Hallivis being shunned by former associates and even his own brother.

Hallivis is represented by attorney Alexander Rufus-Isaacs, known for filing defamation suits against Netflix. The lawsuit seeks to clear Hallivis’ name and hold the defendants accountable for the damage caused to his reputation.