Gina Carano offered an update via her Instagram account concerning her ongoing legal battle against Disney, shedding light on the progress of her lawsuit against Disney/Lucasfilm. She penned, "@disney @lucasfilm Just a brief update on my lawsuit: the journey ahead remains steady, and I anticipate sharing more substantial insights within the coming weeks. Our resolve remains unwavering, and my legal team has been nothing short of extraordinary in their dedication to upholding the dignity of the court and the sanctity of the judicial process. I am deeply honored to be represented by such an esteemed group. Your unwavering support has been a beacon of strength for me. Yesterday, January 30th, marked Cara Dune Day, and it touched my heart profoundly. @ginacaranonet Onward, we march."
In 2021, the former Mandalorian star faced termination from LucasFilm and Disney following the viral spread of her social media posts on American politics and COVID-19. Carano, who portrayed Cara Dune in the Disney+ series "The Mandalorian," was subsequently dismissed. In response, the ex-MMA fighter filed a lawsuit in February 2024, accusing LucasFilm and Disney of wrongful dismissal and gender discrimination. She now seeks compensation and reinstatement to her acting role.
Funding for Carano's lawsuit came from X Corporation, owned by Elon Musk. Joe Benarroch, head of business operations, announced the financial backing, stating, "As a testament to X Corp.'s unwavering commitment to freedom of speech, we are proud to financially support Gina Carano's lawsuit. This endorsement empowers her to seek justice for her free speech rights on X and to work in an environment free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination."
Disney countered with a motion to dismiss the lawsuit in April 2024, arguing that firing Carano for likening disapproval of certain political views to the Holocaust fell within the company's First Amendment rights. However, the motion was denied. Subsequent attempts by Disney to halt proceedings and seek interlocutory appeal also failed. The trial is now scheduled for September 29, 2025.
Following the setting of the trial date, Carano posted on X, "I am undoubtedly pleased with the prospect of continuing forward with the judicial process and entering the discovery phase. Although it is not my desire to find myself in this legal battle, I will not retreat from it due to its difficulty or discomfort."
