Full Breakdown
Nick Ut Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Netflix Over "The Stringer"
3/6/2026, 8:48:57 PM
Background of the Controversy
Nick Ut, the acclaimed photographer known for the iconic image "The Terror of War," commonly referred to as "Napalm Girl," has initiated a defamation lawsuit against Netflix and the VII Foundation. The lawsuit stems from allegations made in the documentary *The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo*, which suggests that Ut may not have been the true author of the photograph taken during the Vietnam War in 1972. The documentary, directed by Gary Knight, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2025 and has sparked significant debate within the photojournalism community.
Core Allegations and Legal Action
Ut's lawsuit, filed in France, claims that the documentary defames him by asserting he misrepresented his role in capturing the photograph and transporting the injured child, Phan Thi Kim Phuc, to safety. He is seeking €100,000 (approximately $116,000) in damages and €20,000 ($23,000) for legal costs. Ut's legal team argues that the film portrays him as a "shameless liar" who has falsely claimed authorship of the photograph for over 50 years. In his statement, Ut emphasized the personal impact of these allegations, stating, "These accusations strike at the very core of who I am. My entire career has been built on telling the truth, often at great personal risk."
Documentary's Claims and Reactions
The documentary presents claims from former Associated Press photo editor Carl Robinson, who alleged that the attribution of the photograph to Ut was a misattribution orchestrated by AP's picture editor Horst Faas. Robinson speculated that Faas may have felt guilty over the death of Ut's brother, who was killed on assignment. The film suggests that other photographers, Nguyen Thành Nghe and Huynh Công Phúc, may have been better positioned to take the photograph, a claim that has led to Ut's credit being suspended by the World Press Photo Foundation.
Official Statements and Responses
Ut's lawyer, James Hornstein, stated that the lawsuit aims to defend Ut's reputation rather than for financial gain, noting that any awarded damages would be donated to charity. Ut expressed gratitude for the support he has received from colleagues and friends, particularly in France, where he believes he can seek justice among those who understand his work and character.
Criticism and Opposition
The documentary has divided opinions within the photojournalism community, with some supporting Ut's claims and others questioning the integrity of the film's assertions. Critics argue that the documentary raises important questions about authorship and the responsibilities of documentary filmmakers, while supporters of Ut emphasize the need to uphold his legacy and the truth of his contributions during the Vietnam War.
What's Next
The case is poised to set a significant precedent regarding authorship and reputation in documentary filmmaking. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome may influence how historical narratives are constructed and the responsibilities of filmmakers in representing the truth.
