Inside Story

Brad Pitt and his Make It Right Foundation have encountered a significant legal setback in an ongoing $20.5 million lawsuit concerning defective homes built for Hurricane Katrina victims in New Orleans. A court has mandated the foundation to release approximately 100,000 sensitive documents during the discovery phase, intensifying the legal scrutiny surrounding the case. ​

Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the Make It Right Foundation, founded by Pitt, aimed to construct affordable, sustainable homes for affected residents. However, homeowners later reported structural issues, including toxic mold and elevated CO₂ levels, leading to a class-action lawsuit filed in 2018. ​

The court’s recent decision requires the foundation to disclose extensive documentation related to the construction and maintenance of these homes. Despite efforts by Pitt’s legal team to exempt him from depositions due to filming commitments, the court has ruled that he must remain a defendant and may be subject to deposition. ​

This development prolongs the legal proceedings, with forensic accountants and engineering experts now involved to assess the foundation’s practices. The case underscores the complexities celebrities may face when engaging in philanthropic ventures, particularly when projects encounter challenges.​

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