Russell Simmons Sues HBO for $100M Over 'On the Record' Documentary

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Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons has filed an amended lawsuit against HBO, demanding $100 million in damages. Simmons claims the network deliberately suppressed evidence, including polygraph results, that would have cleared him of sexual misconduct allegations featured in the 2020 documentary 'On the Record'. The lawsuit alleges HBO ignored warnings from civil rights leaders and members of Congress about flaws in the documentary's narrative.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing legal battles over high-profile sexual misconduct allegations in the entertainment industry, as well as the role of media outlets in vetting and presenting such sensitive stories. Simmons' lawsuit raises questions about the documentary's credibility and HBO's editorial decisions.

The details

Simmons' lawsuit centers on what he says is a trove of exculpatory evidence that was never included in the final cut of 'On the Record'. This allegedly includes over 20 witness statements and interviews supporting Simmons' version of events, as well as nine consecutive CIA-grade polygraph tests he passed. The lawsuit argues HBO 'simply disregarded' this material and instead released a film that 'tremendously disparaged and damaged Mr. Simmons with salacious and defamatory accusations'.

• Simmons filed the amended lawsuit in Manhattan in March 2026.
• The 'On the Record' documentary was originally released in 2020.
• Oprah Winfrey, an initial executive producer, publicly withdrew from the project in 2019 after noting inconsistencies in the accusations.

What’s next

Simmons' lawsuit is ongoing, and the three accusers who claim he missed a settlement payment deadline are seeking over $3.9 million in damages.