Judge Orders Michael Ovitz Back to Deposition After Epstein Question Walkout

A judge has ruled that former CAA co-founder Michael Ovitz must finish giving his deposition in actress Julia Ormond's lawsuit, per Variety. Ovitz had abruptly ended the session months ago when questioned about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

Ormond is suing the talent agency, alleging it set up a 1995 meeting with Harvey Weinstein that led to an alleged sexual assault. Though Ovitz had already left CAA by then, Ormond's legal team wants to question him about the agency's handling of misconduct.

The report states that during a June 1 deposition, Ovitz became angry when asked if he was friendly with Epstein. He responded, "What does this got to do with Harvey Weinstein?" before removing his microphone and leaving.

In Thursday's ruling, the judge denied requests to hold Ovitz in contempt or issue a warrant for his arrest. However, he mandated that Ovitz return to answer all questions by December 18 and did not limit inquiries about Epstein.

Ormond's lawyers released a statement saying they were "pleased" with the decision, which they said clarified Ovitz was not entitled to walk out. They added they look forward to resuming the deposition.

CAA's attorneys had argued the Epstein questions were an irrelevant smear tactic. Previously released emails showed Ovitz writing to Epstein, "I would love to see you."