Damon Dash is facing a major financial blow after being ordered to pay a $4 million default judgment in a defamation lawsuit brought against him by film director and producer Josh Webber. The legal battle stems from Dash’s comments on a popular podcast, which Webber claims cost him a lucrative Hollywood deal.
The ruling, recently obtained by TMZ, marks another chapter in the ongoing feud between the two industry figures. Dash, the Roc-A-Fella Records co-founder and entrepreneur, is now required to compensate Webber for damages related to reputational harm and lost business opportunities.
How the Feud Between Damon Dash and Josh Webber Began
The legal drama between Dash and Webber dates back to a previous dispute over the film “Dear Frank”, a project the two were once involved in. Webber, alongside the film’s producers, had already won a case against Dash in which he was ordered to pay over $800,000. However, tensions reignited in April 2024 when Webber filed a fresh lawsuit—this time alleging defamation.
Webber claims Dash made false and damaging accusations against him during an interview on the “Earn Your Leisure” podcast, a popular show that discusses business and financial topics.
Dash’s Controversial Podcast Comments
During the podcast episode, Dash unleashed a verbal tirade, referencing his past legal battles with Webber and others involved in the “Dear Frank” case. In a particularly damning segment, Dash is quoted as saying:
“I had a judgment. And I knew this dhead Chris Brown and Josh Webber and Muddy Waters … Chris Brown the lawyer. I went through four trials with the same lawyer … What I lost was defamation because these guys trigger me and steal my s* … you think there is freedom of speech, it’s really not.”*
Webber alleges that these public accusations of theft severely damaged his reputation in the entertainment industry. The lawsuit claims that soon after the podcast gained traction—garnering hundreds of thousands of views online—he was informed that he had been dropped from a $4 million directing and producing gig.
Court Rules in Favor of Josh Webber
As a result, Webber pursued legal action, arguing that Dash’s reckless statements cost him a significant business opportunity. The court has now sided with Webber, issuing a default judgment of $4 million against Dash.
A default judgment typically occurs when the defendant fails to properly respond to the lawsuit, resulting in an automatic ruling in favor of the plaintiff. While it’s unclear whether Dash actively contested the case, the outcome is a significant financial setback for the entrepreneur, who has faced several high-profile legal battles over the years.
Damon Dash’s History of Legal Woes
This isn’t the first time Dash has found himself in legal trouble. The music and film mogul, known for his role in launching the careers of JAY-Z, Kanye West, and Cam’ron, has been entangled in multiple lawsuits involving business disputes, unpaid debts, and intellectual property battles.
Beyond the “Dear Frank” lawsuit, Dash has also faced legal issues involving former business partners, child support claims, and financial mismanagement allegations. His outspoken nature and willingness to air grievances publicly have often led to high-stakes courtroom showdowns.
Will Damon Dash Respond?
As of now, Damon Dash has not publicly commented on the court’s ruling or whether he intends to appeal the judgment. Given his history of outspoken defenses and legal battles, many expect he might attempt to fight the decision in court.
Meanwhile, Webber’s victory reinforces the serious consequences of defamation in the entertainment industry, particularly when high-profile figures make accusations that can impact careers and financial opportunities.
With a $4 million judgment looming, it remains to be seen how Dash will respond—or whether he’ll attempt to settle the matter privately.
