A federal judge in Las Vegas has ruled that a sexual misconduct lawsuit against Bill Cosby, filed by ten women, can proceed, marking a significant legal development in the ongoing allegations against the 87-year-old comedian. The lawsuit, initially brought last year, accuses Cosby of sexual misconduct, with the women alleging that he assaulted them over several decades.
The case gained traction following Nevada’s adoption of Senate Bill 129 in 2023, known as the Justice for Victims of Crime bill, which abolished the statute of limitations for civil claims brought by survivors of sexual violence. This legislative change allowed the group of women to file their lawsuit, which includes claims of sexual assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and false imprisonment.
The plaintiffs allege that between the early 1970s and the early 1990s, Cosby lured them into isolated environments, drugged or attempted to drug them, and then sexually assaulted them. These allegations mirror those made by other women across the country who have accused Cosby of similar crimes.
Cosby’s legal team moved to have the case dismissed on both procedural and substantive grounds. While U.S. District Judge Gloria Navarro dismissed the specific sexual assault claims, citing that sexual assault is a crime rather than a state tort, she allowed the majority of the lawsuit to move forward. Judge Navarro sided with the plaintiffs on nearly all legal arguments, leaving intact claims such as battery, emotional distress, and false imprisonment.
This ruling comes at a time when Cosby continues to face legal battles over sexual misconduct allegations, despite his 2021 release from prison after his Pennsylvania conviction was overturned on procedural grounds. The Nevada lawsuit represents a new chapter in the legal fight against the disgraced entertainer, made possible by the state’s recent legislative changes aimed at providing justice to survivors of sexual violence.
With the case now cleared to proceed, Cosby faces yet another courtroom battle, and the plaintiffs will have the opportunity to pursue their claims in court.
Revoking celebrities’ honorary degrees might be rare, but it is not unheard of. Sean “Diddy” Combs was awarded an honorary degree by Howard University at the school’s 2014 commencement ceremony. This was to celebrate his career achievements and contributions to the arts. However, it comes as no surprise that this honor was revoked recently in June 2024.
After a video surfaced showing Combs violently abusing his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in 2016, his already depleting fame took an even bigger nosedive. Howard University also announced it would be cutting all ties with Diddy and might be returning his $1 million donation to the school. Diddy isn’t the only one to suffer this disgrace though. Here are five other notable names who have had their honorary degrees rescinded by a University.
Bill O’Reilly, a former television host and political commentator, gained popularity with his show The O’Reilly Factor on Fox News. He subsequently became one of the most prominent figures in cable news. O’Reilly was recognized for his conservative commentary until his career at Fox News ended in 2017. This came amid allegations of sexual harassment, which he has repeatedly denied.
Regardless, in response to these allegations, Marist College in New York, where O’Reilly had earned his Bachelor of Arts history degree in 1971, revoked the honorary degree it had awarded him. The college’s Board of Trustees cited the sexual harassment allegations and his reported settlements as being deeply contrary to the values of Marist College. This decision to revoke the degree was announced by the university on February 6, 2018. O’Reilly would later accuse the school of being corrupted by left-wing leadership on his No Spin News show in 2023. Nonetheless, the damage was already done.
Charlie Rose
TV personality Charlie Rose was known for his eponymous interview show Charlie Rose on PBS and Bloomberg. He also gained fame for his role as co-anchor on CBS This Morning. He maintained his journalism career for over four decades, and he was respected for his in-depth interviews with influential figures across various fields.
However, Rose’s reputation was tarnished when The Washington Post reported in November 2017 that eight women accused him of making unwanted sexual advances, including lewd comments and inappropriate behavior. Following these allegations, Sewanee: The University of the South revoked the honorary degree it had awarded to Rose when he delivered the university’s commencement address in spring 2016. This action, taken in March 2018, marked the first time Sewanee had rescinded an honorary degree. Additionally, SUNY Oswego started the process to rescind the honorary doctor of humane letters degree it awarded to Rose in 2014, after the allegations surfaced and he was fired by CBS.
Ye had his honorary degree revoked by The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). This marked the first time the institution would make such a move in over eight years. The degree was originally awarded to him in 2015, in recognition of his artistic achievements. However, following a series of controversial remarks made by Kanye, including anti-Black and antisemitic statements, the institution decided to rescind the honor in December 2022.
SAIC’s announced that their decision came after West made public comments that were widely condemned across the country. Evidently, his offensive remarks were not taken lightly. Moreover, the SAIC’s school president described Ye’s actions as “disgusting and condemnable”. The revocation of his honorary degree was also sped along by a Change.org petition. It accused Kanye of using his degree to legitimize hatred and violence. The petition would receive over 15,000 signatures.
Another celebrity personality who had their degree revoked was Harvey Weinstein. The disgraced former film producer was once dubbed “the king of Hollywood” by the media. Weinstein’s fall from grace began in October 2017, when The New York Times published a report detailing decades of allegations of sexual harassment and assault against him. This report led to a cascade of further allegations and ignited the #MeToo movement. As a result, many women came forward with their experiences of sexual misconduct in various industries.
In response to these allegations, The State University of New York (SUNY) Board of Trustees voted to revoke the honorary degree it had awarded Weinstein from the University at Buffalo. Weinstein had received this honorary SUNY doctorate in 2000. At the time, it was in recognition of his contributions to the film industry. However, the university began the process of rescinding the degree in October 2017, after the allegations became public. The revocation was official on November 15, 2017.
Bill Cosby
Bill Cosby, the once-celebrated comedian and actor, was awarded numerous honorary degrees during his career. Multiple prestigious universities bestowed him this honor, including Brown University in 1985, the University of South Carolina in 1986, and his alma mater Temple University in 1991. However, following his conviction on April 26, 2018, for three counts of aggravated indecent assault against Andrea Constand, a former basketball player and employee at Temple University, many institutions began revoking these honors. Some of the many revoked degrees were from Carnegie Mellon, Notre Dame, Boston College, and also Temple University. To date, over sixty honorary degrees that were awarded to Bill Cosby have been revoked, The Atlantic reports.
Slim Thug made headlines for the wrong reason in November 2023. The veteran rapper posted a video to his Instagram in which he cast doubt on the accusations against Diddy. He theorized Cassie, who had just filed a lawsuit against the music mogul, was doing so without having legitimate grips. The internet criticized Thug, and felt like he was being insensitive to the victim of someone who had already been overpowered by Diddy’s connections.
Slim Thug went as far as to compare Diddy to Bill Cosby, in terms of innocence. The comparison is not flattering, but the rapper ran with it. “Bill Cosby is not guilty of all that sh*t,” he wrote in his post. “They were getting high with him. Having fun with him, turning up with him. When they went broke, they tryna do all this extra sh*t.” Cassie was somebody that Thug put in the “extra sh*t” camp. Thug doubled down on his statements when the critiques filled his comment section, but he has since changed his tune. The footage that was released on May 17 changed his mind, along with the rest of the world.
The footage, which was aired on CNN, shows Diddy violently assaulting Cassie as she waits for a hotel elevator. It’s highly disturbing, and serves as proof for all of the claims that the singer previously made against Diddy.
The footage was so damning that Slim Thug felt the need to issue an apology to Cassie via Instagram. “Damn Diddy I tried to ride with the Blk man who had no charges yet but I can’t stand behind this,” he explained. “I’ll take this L. But I still will ride with my ppl until I see some sort of proof I don’t believe in blogs or civil suits.” The rapper then addressed Cassie directly. “Apologies to Cassie and whoever else was on the right side this time,” he added.
Slim Thug’s opinion of Diddy has understandably shifted after seeing the CNN footage. Thug previously criticized those who were championing Diddy’s downfall. “He thought that we would ride or die for him. He thought that the world of Hip-Hop would stay down,” the rapper posited back in March. “This dude is on the list of the worst people in the world right now without no criminal charges.” We at least have to give it to Slim Thug for admitting he was wrong in this instance.
Charnele Brown is widely recognized for her role as Kimberly Reese on the popular television series A Different World. She has made a lasting impact in the entertainment world with her compelling performances and dedication to the arts. As of 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth, her net worth is estimated at $1 million. This valuation is a testament to her career in television and theater, where she has not only portrayed memorable characters but also contributed to the cultural dialogue around African American life and education.
Breakthrough Role In A Different World
Charnele Brown’s career took a significant turn when she joined the cast of A Different World. It was a spin-off of The Cosby Show that focused on students’ lives at a historically Black college. As Kimberly Reese, Brown brought to life a character who was both ambitious and relatable, aspiring to become a doctor. Her portrayal resonated with viewers and remains one of her most notable roles, highlighting her ability to capture the complexities of her character’s academic and personal challenges.
Theater Contributions & Advocacy
Beyond her work on television, Charnele Brown has a strong presence in theater, where she has both acted in and produced numerous plays. Her involvement in the theater showcases her versatility as an actress and her commitment to stories that reflect diverse experiences and issues. Brown’s dedication to the arts extends to her advocacy for theater as a medium for social change, education, and community engagement, reinforcing her impact on and off the stage.
Educational Initiatives & Later Career
In addition to acting and producing, Brown has focused on educational initiatives. Particularly those aimed at nurturing young talent in the performing arts. Her work in this area includes teaching and mentoring aspiring actors. This also speaks to her passion for giving back to the community and fostering the next generation of performers. This aspect of her career enhances her legacy and contributes to her overall influence in the entertainment industry.
Charnele Brown’s net worth reflects a career enriched by diverse roles and a deep commitment to the arts and education. Her achievements in television and theater, as well as her role as an educator, underline her multifaceted contributions to entertainment and her community. Brown’s legacy is marked by her dedication to exploring and presenting nuanced stories, her advocacy for the arts, and her role as a mentor to young artists.
In perhaps the strangest turn of events in this decade, Bill Cosby was released from prison after he was found guilty of sex crimes. Although he’s had a few supporters in his corner, such as Boosie Badazz, he remains a divisive figure at large. The man who was once considered America’s Dad has ultimately become shunned by society at large and it reflects in his lack of public appearances. Most recently, he expressed his concern for his safety when it public. Even with plenty of security, it appears as though Cosby fears for his and his wife’s, Camille Cosby, safety.
Per Radar Online, Cosby’s spokesperson, Andrew Wyatt, revealed that the couple “don’t like being prisoners in their own home.” However, out of precaution for their safety, the two haven’t ventured outside much and have been going back-and-forth between their homes in New York City and Massachusetts. According to Wyatt, this is because Cosby “fears for his life.” Wyatt claimed that Cosby’s paranoid that a family member of one of his accusers could kill him. He added that Cosby doesn’t want to leave his home because he thinks someone could murder him “for fame.”
Bill Cosby Reportedly Purchases Firearms Out Of Precaution
This heightened sense of caution isn’t unwarranted especially because the couple are highly recognizable, Wyatt said. Apparently, the spokesperson also faced threats from relatives of Cosby’s alleged victims and Bill even warned him to “be safe.” As a result, Cosby reportedly purchased two firearms. “He knows what kind of world they live in,” his rep shared. “Who knows what they’d do to him, his wife, daughters, or grandchildren.”
Despite his release, Cosby will likely never have a sense of normalcy again in his life. He was released in Jan. 2021 after his conviction was overturned by Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court. The former comedian faced allegations of sexual assault, rape, and sexual misconduct. He ultimately was sentenced for drugging and sexually assaulting Andrea Constant in 2004, leading to a three to 10 year prison sentence.
Camille Cosby, a figure of influence, has navigated the complexities of the entertainment industry while also making significant contributions to philanthropy and education. Her multifaceted career and personal endeavors have culminated in a net worth estimated at $20 million in 2024, as reported by Eric Singer. This narrative explores the depth of Camille Cosby’s impact, highlighting her roles beyond being the spouse of Bill Cosby, including her work as a producer, author, and philanthropist, which have collectively contributed to her financial standing and legacy.
A Partnership In Entertainment & Production
Camille Cosby’s involvement in the entertainment industry, particularly through her work as a television producer, has been marked by critical acclaim and success. Her role in producing The Cosby Show, one of the most beloved sitcoms of the 20th century, showcased her keen eye for storytelling. It also shows her ability to navigate the business aspects of television production. This project, among others, contributed to her professional reputation. Further, it also highlighted financial achievements, illustrating her influence in shaping a narrative that has left a lasting impact on American culture.
Advocacy & Philanthropy
Beyond her contributions to entertainment, Camille Cosby’s philanthropic efforts have been both impactful and transformative. She donated millions to educational institutions alongside her husband, including $20 million to Spelman College, underscoring her commitment to supporting Black American education and arts. Her philanthropy extends to various causes to uplift communities and provide opportunities for the underprivileged, reflecting her deep-seated belief in the power of education and the arts as vehicles for social change.
Personal Achievements & Ventures
Camille Cosby’s achievements further illuminate her multifaceted career. As an author, her work has contributed to discussions on race, family, and the role of women in society, adding depth to her public persona as an advocate for social justice and equality. Her educational background, culminating in a Ph.D. in Education, highlights her commitment to learning and scholarship, which has informed her philanthropic initiatives and her approach to production and storytelling.
Camille Cosby’s journey is characterized by intelligence and a profound commitment to effecting positive change. Moreover, it makes her a distinguished figure in cultural and philanthropic landscapes. Through her work, Camille Cosby has amassed not only financial wealth but also Still, she has also built a legacy that transcends her achievements, impacting the lives of many and paving the way for future generations.
The Cosby Show was a beloved family sitcom that aired for eight seasons on NBC. The show, which ran from 1984 until 1992, serves as a comedy classic, launching the careers of many stars. Unfortunately, many fans feel that the series’s legacy has been tarnished by its eponymous star. Long before Bill Cosby was known as a reviled sexual predator, the comedian upheld a squeaky-clean image that assisted in normalizing wealth, happiness, and prosperity in black American television. Despite the asterisk placed on Cosby’s legacy, the pioneering series’ other major stars have all gone on to do great things.
Phylicia Rashad
Phylicia Rashad starred in The Cosby Show as family matriarch Clair Huxtable. As a working lawyer and mother of five, Clair acts as a quintessential 1980s icon, grounding the series amid her husband Cliff’s goofy antics. Since the show concluded in 1992, Rashad has continued her illustrious film and television career. Her most notable roles include Diana DuBois in the Fox drama Empire, as well as Adonis Creed’s mother Mary Anne in the Creed trilogy. Most recently, Rashad appeared in the television series Diarra From Detroit, which premiered in June 2023.
Sabrina Le Beauf
The eldest of the Huxtable clan, Sondra, was portrayed by Sabrina Le Beauf. Though the character didn’t appear until the show’s 10th episode, she stayed on for over 175 appearances, making her an instantly recognizable figure to ’80s television fans. Since The Cosby Show ended, Le Beauf has gone on to appear in such projects as Star Trek: The Next Generation, The Sinbad Show, and the Bill Cosby-created animated series Fatherhood. Sabrina Le Beauf stepped away from on-camera work in the 2010s to focus on her stage career. These days, you can find her frequently leading plays with the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C.
Lisa Bonét
The Huxtables’ second child, Denise, was known for her eclectic wardrobe and wandering spirit. Lisa Bonét even went on to lead a Cosby Show spinoff series titled A Different World from 1987-1989, which followed the character’s journey through college. Following the success of the show, Bonét appeared in several films. The actress starred in blockbusters including Enemy of the State, High Fidelity, and Road to Paloma. In recent years, Lisa Bonét has focussed on raising her two children, whom she shares with Aquaman actor Jason Momoa.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner
Malcolm-Jamal Warner starred in The Cosby Show as the Huxtables’ only son, noted troublemaker Theo. Once the show concluded in 1992, Warner continued to star in sitcom roles, including a semi-autobiographical series titled Malcolm & Eddie alongside Eddie Griffin. The actor has since amassed dozens of IMDb credits in series’ such as Listen Up, Dexter, The Michael J. Fox Show, Key and Peele, and Community. Warner has appeared in 5 separate television roles in 2023 alone, with a rumored upcoming appearance in a film titled Christmas Kennel.
Tempestt Bledsoe
Tempestt Bledsoe portrayed the overachieving third daughter of the Huxtable family, Vanessa. As a fan-favorite character, Vanessa exhibited clear signs of ambition and drive from her professional parents. Unlike other actors on this list, Bledsoe has chosen to step away from on-screen work in recent years. The acclaimed actress has appeared in small roles on many television programs in the years since The Cosby Show ended, with her most recent appearance being a 2019 episode of Family Reunion.
Keshia Knight Pulliam
Keshia Knight Pulliam starred in The Cosby Show as Rudy, the affluent family’s youngest child. Once the show rolled credits for the last time, Pulliam went on to lead several other projects. Most notably, the actress has collaborated on numerous films and shows with Tyler Perry. Keshia Knight Pulliam has been a series regular on Perry’s House of Payne since 2007, appearing in 200 episodes. Last Spring, the actress gave birth to her second child, whom she shares with her husband, actor Brad James.
Joan Tarshis, the woman who became the first to publicly accuse Bill Cosby of sexual wrongdoing in 2014, has filed a new lawsuit against the disgraced comedian. Tarshis’ new suit alleges that Cosby drugged and raped her on multiple occasions during the 1970s. She claims the first incident happened when she was 19 and was invited to the set of The Cosby Show. The second, reportedly a year later, happened at an event where Cosby was performing. In both instances, Tarshis claims to have been drugged via a drink from Cosby and later woken to find him assaulting her. Tarshis is suing Cosby for an unspecified sum.
As mentioned, Tarshis was the first woman to accuse Cosby back in 2014. That led to the infamous interview with Don Lemon in which the CNN host asked Tarshis if she could have “stopped” Cosby forcing her to perform oral sex on him. After an incredibly awkward few moments for everyone, Tarshis admitted that she wished she could have but simply didn’t feel able to in the moment.
However, 2023 has seen an uptick in legal battles for Cosby. Back in September, Donna Motsinger claimed that Cosby had drugged and raped her after inviting to her a stand-up show. She claims that Cosby raped her in his dressing room at the Circle Star Theater. Furthermore, Motsinger alleges to remember waking up at her home in a state of undress. She is suing Cosby for an unspecified amount for emotional damage and distress.
Going back further in 2023, Cosby was also served a suit in August by singer Morganne Picard. Picard alleged that she formed a close bond with Cosby and his wife on the set of The Cosby Show. However, Picard claims that Cosby used that relationship to ply her with alcohol and rape her on multiple occasions. All of these suits are currently being litigated. We’ll have any updates as and when they emerge.
Born in 1937 in Philadelphia, Bill Cosby embarked on a journey that would see him transition from stand-up comedy stages to becoming one of television’s most recognizable figures. His ability to connect with audiences saw him rise through the entertainment ranks, with shows like The Cosby Show becoming staples in American households. Over the decades, his contributions to television, film, and comedy were undeniable. By the time 2023 approached, his career trajectory was reflected in a net worth of $400 million, as indicated by Wealthy Gorilla.
Career Highlights & Accolades
Cosby’s influence on the entertainment world is vast. From his groundbreaking work on television to his endeavors in film and stand-up, he sculpted a legacy that few could rival. Shows like Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids highlighted his storytelling abilities, while his stand-up routines became benchmarks for comedians worldwide. His contributions earned him numerous awards, including Emmys and Grammys. At one point, Cosby was not just a comedian or actor but a symbol of wholesome family entertainment. However, rumors plagued his career, unfolding in a massive, continued sexual assault scandal with dozens of purported victims.
Personal Life & Legal Issues
However, beneath the glitz and accolades, Cosby’s personal life was mired in controversy and legal troubles. Beginning in 2005, allegations of sexual assault against Cosby started to surface. Over the subsequent years, numerous women accused him of misconduct spanning decades. This dark cloud overshadowed his earlier achievements, painting a contrasting picture of the man once celebrated as “America’s Dad.”
In 2018, after a lengthy trial, Cosby was found guilty of three counts of aggravated indecent assault. This conviction led to a prison sentence of three to 10 years. However, in a turn of events, his conviction was overturned by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court in June 2021, leading to his release. While the legalities shifted, the allegations and charges have left an indelible mark on his legacy. It raised questions about the balance between professional accomplishments and personal conduct.
Business Ventures & Philanthropy
Cosby had his fingers in various business pies outside of entertainment, from production companies to investments in media and beyond. He also committed to education and support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with significant donations. While his philanthropic efforts were commendable, they’ve now become secondary narratives, overshadowed by his sexual assault conviction and continued allegations.
Motsinger was a waitress and met Cosby at a restaurant, eventually accepting an invite to see the comedian perform at Circle Star Theater. Motsinger states she was picked up in a limo and greeted with a glass of wine, eventually feeling sick once she got to his dressing room. Cosby then reportedly handed her an aspirin, which may have been a different type of pill because she lost consciousness after.
Motsinger stated she woke up in her panties at home and is now suing for the emotional distress of the moment.
According to TMZ, Cosby’s rep is not offering a comment. “No comment at this present time because this is utterly ridiculous and pointless.”