30-year-old singer Ciara has filed a $15 million lawsuit against her ex, Future, on charges of slander and libel.
In her complaint, Ciara alleged that Future, who is also the father of her 1-year-old son Future Zahir Wilburn, made several "false and defamatory statements" against the "Like A Boy" singer. The Huffington Post noted the statements were allegedly attacks on Ciara's parenting skills and her relationship with Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson.
Ciara pointed out that Future ranted on Twitter in January about how she supposedly has "control problems" and that he has to seek help from lawyers just to seek his son. To refute Future's claim, Ciara revealed that she has made adjustments to make sure that Future is able to spend some quality time with their son. She added that Future has made at least 19 visitations since December 2014.
In another incident, Future, who was reportedly upset about how Russell Wilson was involved in his son's life, said, "Leave my son out of the publicity stunts. Just leave him out of your relationship."
According to Billboard, Ciara is of the belief that Future's comments were tainted with malice. He also seeks to prohibit him from further making public statements about matters that involve their family.
Meanwhile, a source close to Wilson told Hollywood Life said he "supports Ciara in her suit" although he has encouraged the singer to forget about her ex.
"He'd much rather put her thoughts and energy into their relationship than worrying about her ex," the source said.
Libel lawsuits over statements made in Twitter is difficult to win. Singer Courtney Love was caught up in a 6-year legal drama after fashion designer Dan Simorangkir filed defamation against her. The lawsuit later ended up in a settlement.
Actor James wood also filed a lawsuit against an anonymous Twitter user who branded him a "cocaine addict." But California's anti-SLAPP law, Woods was required to show proof that he has strong basis for his case before it can move forward.
In Ciara's case, it will be necessary for her to establish strong evidence that Future acted with malice and that he had knowledge that the allegations he threw against Ciara were false.
Ciara and Future called it quits in August 2014. Although he admits he doesn't feel "bitter" about the relationship, Future has consistently been vocal about his disapproval of Russell Wilson being around the company of his son.
