
In October of 2012, then Gawker released a tape of Hulk Hogan (real name Terry Bollea) having sex with Heather Clem. Following the tape’s release, Hogan sent a cease-and-desist order demanding that the footage be removed, which was promptly ignored. Gawker Media founder Nick Denton claimed that publishing the video was protected under the first amendment, and Hogan subsequently took Gawker Media to court for invasion of privacy.
Today, the jury in that case ruled in favor of Hogan, awarding him $115 million in damages, $15 million more than his initial sought after value. It’s worth noting that in 2014, Gawker’s estimated revenue for that business year was only $45 million, which makes the 115 million figure pretty devastating. This also helps set a firmer line between publishing video footage that violates one’s privacy against freedom of speech.
Hogan was emotional when the verdict was read, sobbing happily. Nick Denton was also emotional, reportedly in shock when he heard the ruling. Unsurprisingly, representatives for Gawker are already talking about filing an appeal.
Update 3/22/16: Punitive damages in the sum of $25 million have now be awarded to Hogan, with $15 million coming from Gawker and $10 million coming directly from Nick Denton’s pockets.