
Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow found herself at the centre of a brutal courtroom confrontation during her high-profile ski collision trial, where she was directly accused of being "a fraud" and told she should feel "ashamed" of her actions.
The dramatic exchange occurred during the 2016 Utah ski crash case, where retired optometrist Terry Sanderson sued the Hollywood star for $300,000, claiming she caused him serious injuries during a collision on the slopes.
In newly revealed court transcripts, Sanderson's attorney, Kristin VanOrman, launched a blistering attack on the Goop founder during cross-examination, stating: "I think you should be ashamed of yourself, Ms. Paltrow. I think you are a fraud."
The tension escalated as VanOrman pressed the actress about her recollection of the incident, suggesting Paltrow's version of events was deliberately misleading. "You want to make it seem like you're the victim," the attorney asserted, highlighting the stark contrast between the two accounts of the collision.
Paltrow maintained her composure throughout the gruelling questioning, consistently denying the allegations and standing by her testimony that Sanderson actually skied into her from behind.
The trial, which captivated international media attention, ultimately concluded with the jury ruling entirely in Paltrow's favour. She was awarded the symbolic $1 she had counter-sued for, plus legal fees.
This revelation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the intense pressure and personal attacks that occurred away from the jury's ears, showcasing the cut-throat nature of high-stakes legal battles even for A-list celebrities.