In a closely-watched trial, Jonathan Majors, known for his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has been found guilty of one count of reckless assault in the third degree and harassment, as per a verdict rendered by a New York jury. The decision arrived after approximately four and a half hours of deliberation spread across three days. The actor, who faced a total of four charges relating to an incident involving his former girlfriend, Grace Jabbari, was acquitted on the other counts of intentional assault and aggravated harassment.
The pivotal case unfolded with Jabbari taking the stand for the first four days of the trial, detailing an altercation in a car that allegedly led to her sustaining a laceration behind her ear and a bruised and fractured finger. According to Jabbari's testimony, the incident occurred when she attempted to snatch Majors' phone upon seeing a romantic text, leading to a physical confrontation.
Majors, dressed in a gray suit and accompanied by his attorney and family, including his girlfriend, Meagan Good, displayed a stoic demeanor as the verdict was read in the courtroom. The trial has had significant career implications for Majors, with his publicity firm and managers parting ways with him, and Disney's Searchlight Features pulling "Magazine Dreams" from its release calendar following his arrest.
Prosecutors approached the trial as a case of domestic violence, highlighting a pattern of abuse in Majors and Jabbari's relationship. This included text messages and a recording where Majors appeared to dissuade Jabbari from seeking medical attention for an injury. The defense, led by attorney Priya Chaudhry, questioned Jabbari's credibility and argued that Majors was acting in self-defense. They also suggested that Jabbari had sustained injuries after "revenge partying" at a club.
The trial has not only brought attention to Majors' personal life but also cast a spotlight on the complexities surrounding domestic violence cases. Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized the importance of centering survivors in such cases, stating, "The evidence presented throughout this trial illustrated a cycle of psychological and emotional abuse, and escalating patterns of coercion far too common across the many intimate partner violence cases we see each and every day."
Ross Kramer, an attorney for Jabbari, expressed satisfaction with the jury's decision, acknowledging the difficulty Jabbari faced in reliving traumatic events. "We are gratified to see justice served by today's guilty verdict," Kramer said. "Ms. Jabbari's resolve to see this case through to the end demonstrates her tremendous strength and resilience."
Majors' sentencing is scheduled for February 6, 2024, where he faces the possibility of up to one year in prison. The outcome of this case has resonated beyond the courtroom, stirring conversations about the consequences of domestic abuse and the responsibility of public figures in their personal conduct.