Robert De Niro Accuser Testifies About His Courtroom Outburst and Alleged Abuse
ICARO Media Group
In a dramatic courtroom testimony yesterday, Graham Chase Robinson, a former assistant to actor Robert De Niro, detailed her allegations of abuse and misconduct during her time working for him. Robinson's testimony comes amidst a complex legal battle between her and De Niro, with both sides seeking millions in damages.
Robinson, who served as De Niro's chief personal assistant for over a decade, claimed that he frequently yelled at her and subjected her to emotional distress. During her half-hour testimony, she mentioned a recent outburst in the courtroom when De Niro chided her for accusing him of making her scratch his back. Robinson also stated that the actor had yelled at her just two days prior to her testimony.
The legal battle between De Niro and Robinson began when she resigned from De Niro's Canal Productions in April 2019. Shortly after, De Niro's company sued Robinson for $6 million, alleging embezzlement and negligence while at her job. In turn, Robinson countersued De Niro for $12 million, claiming severe emotional distress, reputational harm, and gender pay discrimination.
During her time as De Niro's assistant, Robinson asserted that she worked diligently and was available to tend to De Niro's needs at all hours of the day. She claimed to receive frequent calls from him, sometimes as many as five to ten times a day, even during inappropriate times such as while she was attending her grandmother's funeral or taking her mother to the emergency room.
De Niro's girlfriend, Tiffany Chen, also took the stand to offer her perspective. Chen expressed her belief that Robinson was infatuated with the actor and described her as "mean, insecure, territorial" and someone who believed she was De Niro's wife. Chen claimed that Robinson exhibited a "demented imaginary intimacy" with De Niro, adding, "She's crazy."
The ongoing legal proceedings have showcased the tensions between both parties involved. De Niro, under oath, dismissed Robinson's claims as "nonsense" and described her role as mainly scheduling, arranging travel, and making purchases for him and his loved ones. While he admitted to raising his voice and berating her at times, he denied being abusive. However, he acknowledged the possibility that he may have referred to Robinson as "spoiled," "a brat," or even a "bitch."
The courtroom battle remains ongoing, with Robinson expected to continue her testimony today. The jury will ultimately decide the outcome and any potential compensatory damages.
As the case continues to unfold, the allegations against De Niro shed light on the dynamics and abusive behavior that can occur in famous Hollywood circles. The outcome of this trial will have implications not only for De Niro and Robinson but also for the ongoing conversation surrounding workplace conduct and accountability in the entertainment industry.