Youssoupoff v Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Ltd

Facts

A film suggested that a Russian princess had been seduced or raped by Rasputin.

Issue

Was the film defamatory?

Held

Yes. It was libel and damages were awarded.

Principle

Matter that tends to make a person shunned and avoided is defamatory, even if it implies no moral blame.

Why it matters

Extends the test of defamation.

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