High-Profile Sports Agent Jonathan Barnett Faces Serious Rape Allegations in US Lawsuit

A civil complaint alleges that Jonathan Barnett, 75, raped an unnamed woman over 39 times, kept her in abusive conditions, and threatened her life and her children's lives for six years. Barnett, however, vehemently denies the allegations and claims they are unfounded.

High-profile British sports agent Jonathan Barnett is at the center of a shocking civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles, where he faces accusations of raping a woman, referred to as "Jane Doe," more than 39 times. The lawsuit alleges that Barnett, who is known for his representation of famous footballers like Gareth Bale and Jack Grealish, trafficked Doe from Australia to the UK in 2017, subjecting her to a six-year ordeal that included being kept as a "sex slave."

In the lawsuit, the unnamed woman claims Barnett imposed threats on her life and her children's lives and "tortured" her during their time together, resulting in enforced submission to his control. The complaint outlines deeply disturbing allegations, including forced degradation, physical restraints, and the implied use of violence to maintain control. According to Doe, upon her arrival in the UK, Barnett asserted ownership over her and began a pattern of abuse almost immediately.

Barnett, 75, has responded to the allegations by firmly rejecting them, labeling them as false and lacking any grounding in reality. "We will vigorously defend this lawsuit through the appropriate legal process," a statement from his legal team asserted, expressing confidence in his eventual vindication. Notably, in 2019, Barnett was named the world's most powerful sports agent by Forbes magazine.

The civil lawsuit not only targets Barnett but also includes Hollywood talent firm Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and CAA Stellar, which Barnett led until his retirement last year. The complaint contends that these agencies knowingly failed to investigate or overlooked substantial payments made to Doe between 2017 and 2023 despite her not being an athlete or a part of the agency system. Detrimental emails allegedly written by Barnett equate Doe to a "slave," showcasing a grave misuse of power.

According to CAA, they became aware of the woman's allegations last year through inquiries linked to settlement demands made by her lawyers. They clarified that Doe has never had a formal connection to the agency, nor has she been employed or contracted by them. The agency stressed its commitment to serious treatment of allegations of such nature, urging Doe to involve law enforcement regarding the matter.

Doe's representatives argue that this case highlights "institutional abuse at the highest level," seeking substantial compensation for her alleged traumatic experiences. The unfolding legal proceedings will likely draw significant attention as they progress through the court system.