Newshub has learned from an email sent to suppliers last week that the local publisher has decided to refrain from releasing “Rebel Rising” in New Zealand, citing “legal reasons.” However, the email did not elaborate on the specifics of these legal issues or indicate a future release date for the memoir.
Originally scheduled for release on April 2, the publication of Rebel Wilson’s memoir has faced obstacles. The Pitch Perfect actress recently asserted that Sacha Baron Cohen, known for his role as Ali G, was attempting to block the book’s publication, following Wilson’s allegations about his behavior on the set of the 2016 film “The Brothers Grimsby.”
The legal issues mentioned by Harper Collins NZ have left uncertainty regarding potential actions from Cohen and his legal representatives, although specific details remain undisclosed.
In response to Wilson’s claims, a spokesperson for Sacha Baron Cohen maintained that the allegations were unsubstantiated, citing extensive evidence including documents, footage, and eyewitness accounts from individuals involved in the production of “The Brothers Grimsby.”
Despite anticipation for the memoir, New Zealand booksellers have refrained from listing “Rebel Rising” for sale on their websites. Notably, major booksellers like Whitcoulls and Paper Plus do not feature the book in their inventory.
While it’s not uncommon for memoirs to encounter issues related to their content, Time Out Bookstore in Mt Eden revealed that they had received an email requesting the recall of any existing stock of “Rebel Rising” due to legal concerns. However, the bookstore clarified that they had no copies in stock and had not received any pre-orders for the memoir, minimizing the impact of the recall on their operations.
