Roger Wilson, a 41-year-old actor and screenwriter, sued DiCaprio for $45 million. Wilson is accusing the actor of having his "posse" beat him up outside Morgan's Hotel on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in 1998.
The State Supreme Court's Appellate Division in Manhattan ruled 5-0 to sustain the charges of "aiding and abetting an assault and battery," but dismissed an assault allegation against DiCaprio. Wilson's lawsuit claims that the 26-year-old "Titanic" star had made advances and had someone on his behalf make annoying telephone calls to his girlfriend, Berkley, and after he confronted the star, DiCaprio shouted, "We'll go kick his ----," and his friends beat Wilson. At issue is whether DiCarpio's shout caused the alleged assault, making the screen star liable for damages.
DiCaprio's attorney, Paul Callen, said Wilson's allegations are "totally false," that a vigorous defense is planned and that the parties will be back in court on Jan. 26 to schedule depositions. Richard M. Zuckerman, Wilson's attorney, said he was pleased with the court's decision because it allows the case to move forward. DiCaprio is filming "Gangs in New York" in Italy, according to Callen.
Wilson appeared in the following films: Porky's, 1981; Porky's 2 – The Next Day, 1982; Thunder Alley, 1985; Can You Feel Me Dancing, 1986; and Star Power of Attorney 1995.
Copyright 2000 by United Press International.
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