The assault trial of Jonathan Majors commenced in New York on December 4, with shocking revelations emerging during the opening statements. The actor's lawyer, Priya Chaudhry, portrayed a narrative of tension between Majors and his alleged victim, Grace Jabbari, stemming from their breakup initiation. Chaudhry suggested that Jabbari's accusations of domestic violence and harassment are rooted in this relationship strain. Interestingly, she also introduced the notion of racism playing a significant role in the case, contrary to audio evidence presented by Jabbari.
The court heard recordings of Majors allegedly demanding "total compliance" and instructing Jabbari to emulate prominent Black women, including Michelle Obama and Coretta Scott King. The trial is expected to last up to two weeks, with Majors facing charges of misdemeanour assault, aggravated harassment, and harassment. While a strangulation charge has been dropped, conviction could still result in a sentence of up to one year in prison.
