Gwyneth Paltrow was granted one dollar in compensatory damages after a jury decided on her advantage in a ski accident lawsuit. Terry Sanderson, a retired ophthalmologist, claimed Paltrow skied “out of control” and collided with him in 2016 at Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah, which the actress disputed. In the civil lawsuit, Sanderson sought $300,000 in damages, while Paltrow submitted a counter-claim asking $1 in legal costs and damages.
Jurors heard testimony from Paltrow, Sanderson, family members, and expert experts during the hearing. Paltrow took the stand to express her “deep regret” for Sanderson’s injuries. However, she refuted any wrongdoing, repeatedly stating in her statement that she was the “victim.”
Paltrow stated that she was “pleased with the outcome” following the decision. “I felt that acquiescing to a false claim compromised my integrity. I am pleased with the outcome and I appreciate all of the hard work of Judge Holmberg and the jury, and thank them for their thoughtfulness in handling this case,” she explained.
Sanderson told reporters outside the courtroom after the decision that Paltrow’s comments were “I wish you well”. “I said, ‘Thank you, dear,'” he explained. Sanderson testified in court on Wednesday that it was “very difficult” to suit a star; and that the purpose of the hearing was to make him “regret” suing the Hollywood actress.
The court heard during final statements on Thursday that Paltrow was facing a “ransom” for a “meritless claim,”; and that she had shown “courage” by attending the two-week trial. Paltrow’s attorney, Stephen Owens, said the actress had remained in court for two weeks as a “punching bag”; and had been “uncomfortable” during the hearings.
Paltrow and Sanderson were both in court when the judgment was read. The actor, who was dressed in a blue blazer, a white blouse, and brown trousers; did not appear to respond as the judgment was read aloud. Paltrow allegedly impacted Sanderson, “knocking him down hard, knocking him out; and causing a brain injury, four broken ribs, and other serious injuries.”
