US Judge Dismisses $27 Million Defamation Lawsuit Against Learnmore Jonasi

A federal judge in Los Angeles dismissed a $27 million defamation lawsuit brought against comedian Learnmore Jonasi. South African composer Lebo M filed the suit over a joke Jonasi made regarding "The Lion King." The court ruled the comedic commentary did not constitute actionable defamation, prompting Jonasi's legal team to seek recovery of fees. Legal experts noted the ruling reinforces strong protections for parody and comedic expression under US law. The dismissal leaves the prominent composer vulnerable to significant financial liabilities from the defendant's counter-claims for legal fees.