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Cook County judge dismisses most of TikToker's claims against Hubbard Inn

By FOX 32 News
Published  December 18, 2024 5:54pm CST
River North
FOX 32 Chicago

Cook County judge dismisses TikToker's claims against Hubbard Inn

A Cook County judge has ruled on a TikToker's claim against the Hubbard Inn, throwing out six of the seven claims made against the establishment.

The Brief

    • A Cook County judge has dismissed six of the seven claims that TikToker Julia Reel filed against Hubbard Inn in River North.
    • Reel’s lawsuit stemmed from a video she posted that alleged a bouncer violently pushed her down a staircase.
    • Hubbard Inn, in response to the video, filed a defamation suit against Reel, claiming reputational and financial damage.

CHICAGO - A Cook County judge on Wednesday dismissed six of the seven claims filed by TikToker Julia Reel in a lawsuit against Hubbard Inn, a River North restaurant and bar.

Earlier this year, Reel posted a video on TikTok alleging she was violently grabbed and pushed down a staircase by a bouncer during a night out in March.

The post prompted Hubbard Inn to release its own video, which showed Reel being escorted out of the venue – leaving on her own.

Reel’s attorney, however, claimed the restaurant’s video does not show the full incident, noting that her client suffered a concussion and significant bruises.

The restaurant accused Reel of spreading false claims that damaged its reputation and caused financial losses of over $30,000.

Reel's lawsuit against Hubbard Inn is seeking damages for her reported injuries.

Julia Reel's statement after judge's ruling

"We are quite pleased that the Court is allowing the lawsuit to proceed, including the uncontested claim about the harm that was done to Ms. Reel. We are also pleased that the Court rules create an opportunity to revisit some of the other claims now or in the future. As we all anticipated, this is going to be a long and difficult lawsuit, which will invariably go to the very end. Ms. Reel is prepared and ready for the battle against the Hubbard Inn."

Hubbard Inn's statement

"Hubbard Inn is pleased the court saw our side in rejecting Ms. Reel’s baseless claims. We look forward to winning our defamation case against her.

"After enduring months of smears on social media, we’re thankful the court recognized the majority of the claims for what they are – rubbish. At Hubbard Inn, we pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming environment for all guests and employees. We thank our patrons and staff for their unwavering support and look forward to continuing to serve our community with excellence.

"Six out of the seven claims brought against us in the lawsuit have been dismissed. This outcome affirms our longstanding commitment to operating with integrity and respect for our guests and their safety."

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