A US courtroom drama is giving a voice to one of the most high-profile victims of the #MeToo movement. E Jean Carroll's long and gruelling battle against Donald Trump, now in its fifth year, has seen two significant civil judgments awarded in her favour – $5 million for sexual assault and $83.3 million for defamation. A new documentary, 'Ask E Jean', offers a poignant and often humorous insight into this protracted struggle, as well as shedding light on the wider issues of power, accountability and the cost to women who dare to speak out.
The alleged incident that sparked it all occurred in 1996, when Carroll, then an established advice columnist at Elle magazine, was allegedly raped by Trump in a Bergdorf Goodman changing room after he invited her to assist him with lingerie selection. In 2019, inspired by the #MeToo movement, she publicly accused Trump of the assault and subsequently initiated civil suits for sexual assault and defamation – actions that would test her resolve to its limits.
Two juries have now found in Carroll's favour: one awarding $5 million, while the second compelled Trump to pay a staggering $83.3 million after he appeared in court, seemingly in an attempt to intimidate his accuser. While the courts have already required Trump to pay the initial $5 million, the case remains ongoing – with a potentially decisive impact on the US elections due to take place in 2028.
The documentary also shines a light on Elle magazine's role in Carroll's story. The publication terminated her contract when the first lawsuit emerged, prompting questions about whether editors were complicit in silencing Carroll. While the film does not clarify whether they were approached for comment, it positions Elle as an unwelcome player in this drama.
Through 'Ask E Jean', we witness Carroll's unwavering determination and unshakeable spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. Her courage has inspired countless others to speak out against abuse of power – a message that resonates deeply with British audiences, where the consequences of such actions can have far-reaching implications for our own national security, trade relationships and economy.