Mo’Nique has enough evidence to move forward with a lawsuit against Netflix, United States District Judge Andre Birotte Jr. ruled on Wednesday (July 15). The comedian accused the streaming giant of racial discrimination for lowballing her during initial negotiations for an hourlong stand-up comedy special, and retaliating against her by failing to offer a higher rate.
In denying Netflix’s motion to dismiss the case, the court concluded that Mo’Nique successfully proved that she was subjected to retaliation, that Netflix failed to take all “reasonable steps” to prevent said retaliation, and that she suffered “injury, damage, loss, or harm.”
The Oscar winner alleges that Netflix offered her $500,000 for the special, a rate substantially lower than other comedians like Amy Schumer who received millions for her standup special. After she rejected the original offer, Netflix refused to “negotiate a fair pay,” according to legal documents.
Netflix denies Mo’Nique’s claims and argues that there is “no legal authority” supporting her proposition that an “employer’s failure to negotiate in good faith, consistent with its purported customary practice, is an ‘adverse employment action.’” Netflix goes on to allege that Monique ruined the possibility of “an increased offer,” and “refused to make a reasonable counter offer.”