The Trial of Jonathan Majors: A Closer Look at the Assault and Harassment Case

In New York City, the much-awaited trial of Jonathan Majors has commenced after repeated delays and legal clashes. The "Creed III" and "Loki" star finds himself facing misdemeanor charges of assault and harassment, which, if proven guilty, could lead to significant consequences, including a potential one-year prison sentence.

The jury selection begins today in a Manhattan courtroom, with news organizations pushing for the unsealing of documents containing information on possible past incidents involving Majors, adding an extra layer of complexity to the already contentious case.

Prosecutors assert that Majors turned violent with his then-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari, during a car-service ride from their Chelsea apartment that abruptly stopped in Chinatown on the night of March 25. NYPD officers, responding to Majors' 911 call, discovered Jabbari with injuries, leading to the actor's arrest. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released with orders to avoid contact with Jabbari.

Majors filed a cross-complaint, alleging that Jabbari, in an out-of-control state, initiated the violence and caused injuries as he tried to restrain her. The actor claimed that she believed another woman was texting him during the car ride.

Majors' defense, led by lawyer Priya Chaudhry, has painted a picture of him as the victim of escalating domestic violence by a controlling and abusive partner. Chaudhry argues that her client is the target of a "witch hunt," fueled by racial bias.

Despite Majors' legal team seeking dismissal, the trial moves forward, with prosecutors maintaining their stance. The DA's office refuted claims of misconduct and hinted at an incident in London in September 2022, where Majors was filming "Loki", leading to a police report. The admissibility of such past allegations remains uncertain under New York's legal standards.

The trial is not only about legal ramifications but also the toll it has taken on Majors' personal and professional life. The actor faced swift consequences after the arrest, being dropped by management company Entertainment 360 and publicist The Lede Company in April. Previously announced roles dried up, and ad campaigns were pulled. In October, Disney removed "Magazine Dreams", a film starring Majors generating Oscar buzz, from its release schedule.