A Chicago bar and restaurant, Hubbard Inn, is facing a defamation lawsuit after a TikToker, Julia Real, alleged she was violently ejected from the establishment. The incident, which unfolded on March 9th, 2024, quickly went viral after Real posted a video on TikTok accusing Hubbard Inn’s security personnel of manhandling and pushing her down the stairs.
Security footage image showing Julia Real being escorted down a hallway by a security guard.
Hubbard Inn vehemently denies Real’s allegations, countering that her claims are entirely fabricated. In response to the viral TikTok video, the establishment released its own footage from security cameras, juxtaposing Real’s narrative with video evidence that appears to contradict her account.
Security Footage Disputes TikToker’s Account
The security footage presented by Hubbard Inn portrays a different sequence of events than what Real described. In the video, Real is seen being escorted down a hallway by a security guard, seemingly without the use of excessive force. Contrary to Real’s claims of being thrown down the stairs, the footage shows her walking down a flight of stairs, engaged in conversation, and even appearing to laugh with another woman.
Security footage still image of Julia Real walking down a flight of stairs with a woman, seemingly laughing.
Following the release of the security footage, public opinion rapidly shifted, with many accusing Real of fabricating the story for online clout. Real’s TikTok account, which once featured the viral video, has since been reduced to a single video response from her legal team.
TikToker’s Legal Team Cites Missing Footage, Claims Concussion
Real’s legal team maintains that their client’s injuries are indisputable. They argue that crucial footage, specifically a two-minute gap in the security tapes, is unaccounted for. This missing footage, they contend, would reveal the alleged assault, which took place in an area not covered by Hubbard Inn’s surveillance system.
The legal team asserts that Real suffered a concussion and other significant injuries as a direct result of the alleged assault. They urge the public to reserve judgment until all evidence is presented in court, implying that the security footage released by Hubbard Inn doesn’t tell the whole story.
Hubbard Inn Files Defamation Lawsuit, Citing Revenue Loss
In a lawsuit filed on Monday, Hubbard Inn accuses Real of defamation, claiming her TikTok video has caused significant financial and reputational damage to the establishment. The lawsuit alleges that Real’s false accusations have led to a wave of cancellations, negative online reviews, and a substantial loss of revenue, estimated at approximately $30,000.
Addressing the missing footage, Hubbard Inn acknowledges that their security cameras do not cover every inch of the premises. However, they maintain that the missing footage amounts to only 45 seconds, not the two minutes claimed by Real’s legal team. They argue that the available footage clearly demonstrates Real being calmly escorted from the premises without any form of physical assault.
Legal Experts Weigh in on Defamation Case
Legal experts suggest that the case hinges on the missing footage and the credibility of the witnesses. If Real’s claims of a violent assault are corroborated by evidence not captured on the available security footage, Hubbard Inn’s defamation case could be significantly weakened. Conversely, if no further evidence emerges to support Real’s allegations, Hubbard Inn may have a strong case for defamation.
The case highlights the increasing prevalence of social media in influencing public opinion and the potential legal ramifications of online accusations. It underscores the importance of due diligence and factual accuracy when making public claims, particularly when those claims could potentially damage the reputation of individuals or businesses.
As the legal proceedings continue, both sides are expected to present their cases in court, where a judge or jury will ultimately determine the validity of Real’s claims and the extent of Hubbard Inn’s alleged damages. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for future cases involving social media accusations and defamation claims.
