Instagram Celebrity Hit With $6.5 Million Defamation Verdict

Defamation

Curtis Heffernan v. Ignite International Ltd. et al. (Los Angeles Super Ct No. 20STCV25549): On May 9, 2025 a jury rendered a verdict of $6.5 million in favor of plaintiff Curtis Heffernan, who filed a defamation case against Instagram celebrity Dan Bilzerian, an influencer known for his lavish lifestyle, and Ignite International, Ltd. Plaintiff worked as the Executive Vice President for Ignite Inernational, Ltd., and was terminated from his position after he refused to sign off on Bilzerian’s expenses which included a rock climbing wall, ping pong table, paintball field and other charges. Plaintiff was terminated the following day after refusing to authorize these expenses. Bilzerian later made a statement to TMZ claiming that plaintiff was terminated for incompetence and negligence. Plaintiff sued for defamation and prevailed on his cause of action with the sizable verdict. Plaintiff was represented by Workplace Justice Advocate PLC and Lim Law Group PC. Defendant was represented by Flangas Law Group and The Medrala Law Firm PLLC.