Jeffrey Osborne is facing a $2 million lawsuit filed by Danielle Buchanan and Maneva Currie, who allege he engaged in negligent and discriminatory conduct during one of his concerts, leaving them “emotionally disturbed.”
The complaint, filed in the Superior Court of California, targets the “On the Wings of Love” singer, aged 75, as well as the Greek Theater, the venue where the incident occurred.
According to the plaintiffs, Osborne deliberately caused emotional distress, while the Greek Theater showed negligence and violated the Unruh Civil Rights Act, which safeguards against discrimination in California’s business establishments.
The events unfolded during Jeffrey Osborne’s concert on May 6, 2023, when he sought an audience member to join him in singing his 1986 hit, “You Should Be Mine (The Woo Woo Song).”
Danielle Buchanan was selected to sing on the microphone, with the camera focusing on her face, projected onto large screens flanking the stage.
However, the situation turned sour when Jeffrey Osborne allegedly demanded, “I want a White person.”
Buchanan, feeling “shocked, embarrassed, and humiliated,” attempted to play it off by jokingly saying, “I’m White.”
Nonetheless, Jeffrey’s team took the microphone and searched for someone else with less melanin.
Maneva Currie, who was recording the incident, shared in Buchanan’s feelings of embarrassment and humiliation.
The complaint reveals that remarks from other audience members exacerbated their distress, making it impossible for them to enjoy the remainder of the concert.
Despite Danielle Buchanan’s attempt to address the issue with the Greek Theater through a verbal complaint, she claims to have received no response.
The emotional toll on Buchanan and Currie was severe, leading them to seek psychotherapy and avoid social engagement for months.
They claim that Jeffrey Osborne’s actions caused them significant harm and are seeking punitive damages exceeding $2 million, along with a jury trial.
Can you Woo Woo Woo?!?
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Source: People