Disney Loses Lawsuit to Gina Carano

A federal judge has ruled that Disney must confront a discrimination lawsuit filed by actress Gina Carano, who was dismissed from her role in "The Mandalorian" in 2021. The ruling, issued on July 24, comes after Disney sought to have the case dismissed, arguing that the First Amendment protects employers from being compelled to endorse views that may conflict with their own. However, U.S. District Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett rejected this defense, stating that the case requires a deeper examination of whether Disney engages in protected association. Judge Garnett referenced U.S. Supreme Court precedents, noting that for the First Amendment to shield organizations like Disney, it must be established that they are promoting specific values through their employment practices. Unlike the Boy Scouts, which is a members-only nonprofit, Disney does not fit this category. The judge pointed out that Disney failed to provide evidence that it employs actors to promote values such as respect and inclusion, which undermines its argument. Furthermore, the judge indicated that Carano has made a plausible case that her termination was a strategic move by Disney to divert attention from criticisms regarding its business operations in China. In a statement, Carano expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to clear her name in court, describing her experience as "unacceptable" and "abusive." She also acknowledged support from Elon Musk, who contributed to the funding of her lawsuit.