Rebel Wilson's defamation payout has been reduced from A$4.5 million to A$600,000. This is due to a successful appeal by Bauer Media.
The actress lost her final bid to reclaim the payout for the defamation case.
She now has to pay back millions to the High Court of Australia as a result.
In June 2017 Wilson successfully argued that eight articles published by Bauer Media’s magazines falsely portrayed her as a serial liar. An Australian jury sided with her and ordered Bauer Media to pay her A$4.5 million as compensation.
At the time, it was the largest payout in Australian history.
However, a court reduced the sum on appeal. They found that “there was no basis in the evidence for making any award of damages for economic loss”.
The High Court of Australia dismissed Wilson's bid to review the compensation.
— ABC Canberra (@abccanberra) November 15, 2018
After the decision, the actress told reporters outside that she was happy the case has a "definitive end." She said "it was never about the money but about standing up to a bully." She said she had "done that successfully", adding: "At the end of the day that is what matters."
The articles in question, published in 2015, alleged that Wilson lied about her name, age, and upbringing.
Bauer Media said it was "pleased" that the High Court brought "an end to this matter".
'I wanted to stand up to a bully, and I'm proud of myself that I did that.' - @RebelWilson speaks after the High Court refused her appeal. #TMS7 pic.twitter.com/XilTOUCCKx
— The Morning Show (@morningshowon7) November 16, 2018
Wilson also shared the following on Twitter:
— Rebel Wilson (@RebelWilson) November 16, 2018
is extremely significant and close to an Australian record! The clear jury verdict vindicated my reputation, and now everybody knows the truth about the disgusting behaviour of this media company, who have been found guilty of malicious defamation.
— Rebel Wilson (@RebelWilson) November 16, 2018
My legal team is exceptional and amazing, and I’m so grateful to have had amazing support from my family, friends and fans along this journey. I am proud of this victory and all of the hard fight! Thanks everyone ❤️
— Rebel Wilson (@RebelWilson) November 16, 2018