Ellen DeGeneres Faces Jury Trial Request in 2023 Santa Barbara Car Crash Lawsuit

Ellen DeGeneres is facing a new legal challenge. A woman has requested a jury trial in a lawsuit over a 2023 car crash. The incident occurred in Santa Barbara County, California.

The plaintiff alleges the talk show host caused a serious collision. This news adds another chapter to DeGeneres’s public narrative. It follows the controversial end of her long-running daytime show.

Details of the Alleged Reckless Driving Incident

Court documents outline the crash details. It happened on October 16, 2023, at an intersection. The plaintiff claims she was in her Tesla and had come to a complete stop.

According to the filing, DeGeneres failed to stop at a stop sign. Her vehicle then allegedly “T-boned” the plaintiff’s car. The impact was reportedly significant.

The lawsuit states the crash caused the woman serious injuries. It also claims she suffered emotional distress and financial losses. These include medical bills and a loss of enjoyment of life.

The case was initially filed in September. At that time, DeGeneres was vacationing in Italy with her wife. The couple now resides primarily in the English countryside.

Legal Proceedings and Broader Public Impact

The request for a jury trial changes the dynamic. It indicates the plaintiff seeks a public adjudication of the facts. A non-jury trial was previously scheduled for late 2026.

Legally, serving DeGeneres with the complaint has been a process. Her relocation abroad complicates matters. The plaintiff plans to use international Hague Convention rules for formal service.

This case returns DeGeneres to unwanted headlines. Her talk show ended in 2022 after allegations of a toxic workplace. She and her wife have largely maintained a low profile since then.

They recently sold a California farmhouse. The move was part of a shift to a quieter life. This lawsuit disrupts that retreat from the spotlight.

The pursuit of a jury trial ensures this civil case will remain in public view. The Ellen DeGeneres car crash lawsuit now moves toward a potentially lengthy and public legal battle. Its outcome could significantly impact the former host’s post-show chapter.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: When did the Ellen DeGeneres car crash happen?

The alleged crash occurred on October 16, 2023. It took place at an intersection in Santa Barbara County, California. The lawsuit was filed nearly a year later.

Q2: What injuries were claimed in the lawsuit?

The plaintiff claims she suffered serious physical injuries from the collision. She also cites lasting emotional distress and anxiety. Financial losses from medical costs are part of the claim.

Q3: Has Ellen DeGeneres responded to the lawsuit?

No public statement from DeGeneres or her representatives has been widely reported. The legal process is in its early stages. Formal response typically follows after being served with the complaint.

Q4: Why is a jury trial being requested?

A jury trial allows a panel of citizens to decide the facts and liability. It is a constitutional right in civil cases. The plaintiff has chosen to exercise this option.

Q5: Where does Ellen DeGeneres live now?

DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, now reside primarily in the English countryside. They sold their $30 million Montecito, California, farmhouse recently. This international residence comulates legal service of the lawsuit.

Q6: When is the trial scheduled?

A trial is currently scheduled for November 2026. This date is for a non-jury trial. The new request for a jury trial may affect this timeline.