Myles Garrett Files $50 Million Lawsuit Against The View After Explosive On-Air Clash with Whoopi Goldberg

In a dramatic collision between the NFL and daytime television, Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett has filed a $50 million defamation lawsuit against The View, ABC, and co-host Whoopi Goldberg, accusing them of orchestrating a “vicious, premeditated character attack” during a live broadcast watched by millions.

Filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, the lawsuit marks one of the most high-profile confrontations between a major NFL star and a national media platform — and it could reshape the boundaries of live commentary in sports media.

A Routine Segment Erupts into Chaos

The controversy began during a discussion on leadership and accountability in the NFL, with the hosts referencing Garrett’s recent on-field conduct and team dynamics. What was intended as a standard sports segment quickly turned into a live-fire media frenzy.

Clips that circulated widely on social media showed Goldberg questioning Garrett’s “sportsmanship and professionalism,” while Joy Behar raised doubts about his “character and integrity” as a team leader. Viewers and insiders described the segment as unusually harsh, delivered without context and without giving Garrett a chance to respond.

“This felt less like commentary and more like an ambush,” said one Browns insider.

“Not Commentary — A Character Assassination”

Garrett’s legal team, led by prominent attorney Mark Ellis, issued a strong statement following the lawsuit:

“This was not commentary — it was character assassination, broadcast live to millions. Myles Garrett’s reputation has been maliciously targeted, and the defendants will be held accountable.”

The suit names ABC, The View, Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, and several senior producers, alleging:

• Defamation

• Intentional infliction of emotional distress

• Negligent supervision

• Reckless disregard for truth

Court documents claim the segment caused “severe and irreparable harm” to Garrett’s standing in the NFL, with his professional reputation and public image suffering significant damage.

Backlash Behind the Scenes

Sources report that ABC executives held emergency meetings after the broadcast, describing the mood as “tense and panicked” over the potential legal and public relations fallout.

“If Garrett wins even partially, it could set a precedent for live television commentary across the country,” said one producer anonymously. “Every opinion-based show will have to reconsider how they cover public figures.”

Social media erupted almost immediately, with hashtags such as:

• #GarrettVsTheView

• #JusticeForMyles

• #NFLvsMedia

• #DefamationBattle

Fans across the league weighed in. Supporters applauded Garrett for “standing up to biased media,” while others debated whether athletes and public figures should tolerate criticism. Yet the consensus leaned toward agreement that the segment had crossed a line.

Could This Become a Landmark Case?

Because Garrett is a public figure, his legal team must prove “actual malice” — that the hosts knew their statements were false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth.

Professor Elaine Mercer of UCLA noted:

“If Garrett’s team proves malicious intent, this case could become a blueprint for athletes or coaches seeking recourse against defamatory media commentary.”

Garrett Speaks Out: “They Tried to Humiliate Me”

Sources close to Garrett say the star defensive end was deeply shaken by the segment, describing it as “a public ambush designed to damage his reputation.” Garrett reportedly told teammates and associates:

“They tried to humiliate me on live television. Now they’ll have to answer in court.”

Another insider added:

“They didn’t just cross a line — they bulldozed through it. And Myles is ready to bulldoze back.”

Sports vs. Media: A New Frontline

The lawsuit extends beyond Garrett himself. It highlights growing tensions between professional athletes and media outlets that blur the line between entertainment and journalism. For many players and coaches, Garrett’s legal action represents a long-overdue pushback against sensationalized reporting.

A Warning to Networks

Regardless of the outcome, this case sends a clear message: NFL players — and public figures in general — may no longer tolerate being blindsided by high-profile, unverified commentary.

As one media law analyst summarized:

“Criticism is fair game, but if you’re going to attack someone’s character on national television, you better be ready to defend it in court.”

Myles Garrett’s lawsuit against The View is now one of the most closely watched intersections of sports, media, and law in recent history. Fans, analysts, and legal experts alike will be following each development, as the case could reshape how athletes are discussed in the public eye — and how far daytime television can push before crossing the line.