MacInnes, lead actor in Wilson’s directorial debut “The Deb”, claims Wilson falsely suggested on Instagram that she had privately confided in her about being sexually harassed by one of the film’s producers.

Court filings allege Wilson, the star of three “Pitch Perfect” movies and “Bridesmaids”, failed to seek verification from MacInnes and made the claims despite knowing no complaint had been made.

The posts allegedly implied that MacInnes had lied when she denied discussing harassment or inappropriate behaviour by producers on “The Deb”.

While Wilson, who has over 11 million followers on Instagram, has denied the claims, her legal defence has not been disclosed.

MacInnes, who was also in court for the hearing, is seeking aggravated damages and a court order preventing Wilson from repeating the allegations online or elsewhere.

Wilson also alleged in the July 2024 posts that executive producer Vince Holden, along with producers Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron, attempted to block the film’s premiere in retaliation for her raising concerns about the alleged misconduct, according to reports in Australian media.

A separate lawsuit was filed against Wilson by “The Deb” producers in a US court and a court in New South Wales, reports said.

“The Deb”, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024, faced delays in its Australian theatrical release earlier this month due to the legal issues.

“I love ‘The Deb’, I mean, it’s so cute and amazing. Thank you to everyone who’s going to the cinemas,” Wilson told reporters outside the court.

The hearing for the defamation case is expected to last nine days.