Donald Trump is moving forward with a massive lawsuit against the BBC, demanding up to $5 billion in damages over an edited speech aired in a documentary. The British broadcaster has apologized for the misrepresentation, acknowledging that the editing unintentionally suggested the former president had called for violence during his January 6, 2021 remarks.
Trump revealed his plans to reporters, stating, “We’ll sue them. We’ll sue them for anywhere between a billion and 5 billion dollars, probably sometime next week.” He characterized the BBC’s actions as “cheating” and “changed the words coming out of my mouth.” The disputed documentary, aired in October 2024, focused on Trump’s speech to supporters in Washington D.C.
The BBC’s statement admitted that the edited clip created the “mistaken impression that President Trump had made a direct call for violent action.” The broadcaster has apologized to Trump and assured that the footage will not be shown again. However, they have explicitly ruled out offering any financial compensation. Trump, who had previously threatened legal action demanding an apology, retraction, and compensation, now insists on proceeding with the lawsuit, citing an “obligation” to address what he deems an “egregious” act to prevent future occurrences.