Fraud Lawsuit Filed Against Billy Preston Documentary Ahead of SXSW Premiere
A fraud lawsuit has been filed against a documentary about musician Billy Preston, accusing the filmmakers of misrepresentation and focusing on the alleged outing of Preston’s sexuality. The lawsuit seeks an injunction to prevent the exhibition and distribution of the documentary.
Fraud Lawsuit Filed Against Billy Preston Documentary Ahead of SXSW Premiere
A fraud lawsuit has been filed against a documentary about musician Billy Preston, just days before its scheduled debut at the SXSW festival. The complaint, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sam Moore and others, accuses the filmmakers of misrepresentation and focuses on the alleged outing of Preston’s sexuality. The lawsuit seeks an injunction to prevent the exhibition and distribution of the documentary, as well as the use of intellectual property belonging to the plaintiffs.
( Credit to: Deadline )
Billy Preston, a renowned singer, songwriter, and keyboard player, had an illustrious career collaborating with artists such as the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. His collaborations with the Beatles were recently chronicled in Peter Jackson’s documentary series “The Beatles: Get Back.” Preston achieved success as a solo artist, with hits like “Outa-Space,” “Will It Go Round in Circles,” and “Nothing From Nothing.” He also worked with George Harrison after the Beatles disbanded and contributed to The Concert for Bangladesh. Preston passed away in 2006 at the age of 59.
Accusations of Misrepresentation and Outing of Preston’s Sexuality
The complaint specifically criticizes the documentary for its inclusion of commentary from an individual who never met Preston, discussing the roots of his homosexuality and childhood sexual abuse. The plaintiffs argue that this scandalous material, originating from a stranger to Preston, is out of place and serves the personal agendas and financial benefit of the director and producers rather than honoring Preston’s memory.
In response to the lawsuit, the director of the documentary, Paris Barclay, defended the film, stating that it celebrates Preston’s influential talent and explores his struggles. Barclay called the complaint meritless and suggested that it reeks of homophobia and censorship.
Prominent Hollywood Attorney Hired to Protect Preston’s Legacy
The plaintiffs have hired prominent Hollywood attorney Marty Singer to represent them in the legal action. Singer, along with his colleague Melissa Lerner, expressed their intention to protect Preston’s legacy and seek a court order to halt further distribution of the film.
Documentary Explores Preston’s Career and Personal Struggles
The SXSW festival, where the documentary was set to premiere, began on March 8th and will continue until March 16th. The documentary, titled “Billy Preston: That’s The Way God Planned It,” delves into Preston’s career, his impact on musicians of all generations, and his personal struggles as a gay Black man. The filmmakers aim to showcase his immense talent and the conflicts he faced in reconciling his church roots with his true identity.