A judge has thrown out a lawsuit that accused Warren Beatty of coercing a teenage girl into sex in 1973. The lawsuit was filed by Kristina Hirsch in November 2022 under a California law that opened a three-year “look-back window” for claims of child sexual abuse. Hirsch alleged that Beatty, who was 35 at the time, coerced her into sex when she was 14 and 15. The suit claimed that Beatty used his position and status as a Hollywood movie star to coerce sexual contact with her on multiple occasions.
The defendant was referred to as “a renowned and well-known actor and producer” who was nominated for an Oscar for his role as Clyde in 1967’s Bonnie and Clyde, clearly referencing Beatty. Hirsch was initially represented by a law firm, but they withdrew from the case in August, and Hirsch was representing herself after failing to find new legal representation.
Beatty, now 86, had not been served with the complaint, and on Friday, Beverly Hills superior court judge Edward B Moreton Jr dismissed the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled. Hirsch was suing for damages for sexual battery and sexual assault, alleging she was suffering psychological and emotional distress and had “issues with trust and control” as a result of the alleged abuse.
Beatty has yet to make any statement on the lawsuit, and The Guardian reached out to him for comment. The article also provides information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues from various organizations.
This raises questions about the lawsuit process and the handling of such sensitive cases. The dismissal of the case with prejudice means that it cannot be refiled, and the fact that Beatty had not been served with the complaint raises concerns about due process. It is also important to note that the organizations offering support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues are available for those who may need it.
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