Jerry Heller, the former manager of N.W.A, is raising some hell because he believes the box office smash Straight Outta Compton falsely portrayed him as responsible for the break-up of the successful group. He also claims he never took advantage of Dr. Dre, Ice Cube or Eazy E.
He’s seeking at least $110 million in damages. Of course, the lawsuit is taking on the most powerful people involved in the making of this film. There are several defendants listed, including Legendary Pictures, director F. Gary Gray, Universal Studios, Dr. Dre, and Ice Cube.
Heller claims the film failed to get his consent, refused to give him any of the profits, and completely ruined his reputation in the business.
You can read a portion of the lawsuit below…
“The insidiousness of Defendants’ behavior is underscored by the fact that the Film may well become the largest globally grossing music-story based film ever. The larger the success of the film, the greater the damages to [Heller], who has been and continues to be defamed, ridiculed, and robbed of his personal and financial rights to the extent that the intentional and egregious behavior of Defendants demands the imposing of punitive damages.”
The fact that Heller is suing and asking for over $100 million almost proves his character in the movie was accurate, considering he was portrayed as a sleazy businessman who was never afraid to threaten someone with legal action.
We’ll see what happens. So far, lawyers for Dr. Dre and Ice Cube have refused to comment on the lawsuit.