Wage and hour claims broaden the exposure
Beyond tort causes of action, the complaint pleads wage theft and labor law violations, asserting unpaid wages and unlawful practices during the period of employment. If proven, wage-and-hour claims can carry statutory penalties, liquidated damages, and fee-shifting, meaning a prevailing plaintiff may recover attorney’s fees in addition to unpaid wages and interest. Layered atop claimed medical and emotional harms and lost earnings, the damages demand lands in the $6–7 million range. While the defense has not yet responded, these claims—particularly if accompanied by documentary evidence of hours worked versus payments made—can be difficult and costly to rebut.
Alleged intimidation and a pattern of coercive control
A notable through-line in the pleading is the description of an intimidation-based workplace culture. According to Gables, threats, menacing statements, and retaliatory tactics were used to maintain control and to deter challenges or complaints. The complaint portrays a working environment where access to the artist and continued industry opportunity were made contingent on compliance, and where disagreements were allegedly met with escalation rather than resolution. None of these allegations have been tested through evidence, but if discovery yields corroborating messages, witness accounts, or security footage, a jury could view such conduct as supporting punitive damages.
