Rebel Wilson is setting the record straight amidst a social media storm ignited by posts on The Deb's Instagram account, which garnered headlines amidst the ongoing legal saga enveloping the film. The account, reportedly managed by Wilson herself amidst the project's tumultuous release limbo, lashed out at actress Charlotte MacInnes via a caption-laden story. The footage in question showed MacInnes serenading from the opulent yacht of the film's financier, Len Blavatnik, during Cannes.
One scathing caption read, "Charlotte MacInnes, donned in a culturally insensitive Indian ensemble aboard Len Blavatnik's luxury yacht in Cannes, ironically crooning a tune from a movie destined never to see the light of day due to her deceit and advocacy for those hindering its release." A subsequent post added, "How delightful that you, Charlotte, secured a record deal at the expense of the 300 souls who toiled on The Deb, eagerly awaiting its release."
In a statement exclusively shared with The Hollywood Reporter to clarify these postings, Wilson's team emphasized her unwavering commitment to bringing the film to audiences: "The entire Deb crew eagerly anticipates the world premiere of the film. Rebel takes immense pride in this endeavor and marvels at the tireless efforts everyone contributed to her directorial debut."
Last summer, Wilson sparked controversy by posting an Instagram video accusing producers Amanda Ghost, Gregory Cameron, and Vince Holden of embezzlement and sexual harassment, further alleging they thwarted the film's debut at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. The producers retaliated with a defamation lawsuit, contending that Wilson sought an unwarranted writing credit, prompting Wilson to counter-sue months thereafter. In November, THR reported Wilson's unsuccessful bid to dismiss the defamation lawsuit against her. MacInnes, in response to Wilson's allegations, refuted claims that Ghost had mistreated her.
The Deb, a musical film anchored by Natalie Abbott as a high school misfit who joins forces with her cousin (MacInnes) to rock the upcoming debutante ball, marks Wilson's directorial debut, adapted from Hannah Reilly's screenplay based on a Sydney stage show that premiered in 2022.
