AceShowbiz - On September 13, Francis Ford Coppola sued Variety Media LLC and journalists Brent Lang and Tatiana Siegel for $15 million and punitive damages for defamation over a July 26 article that called his behavior on the set of his film "Megalopolis" "unprofessional."

The article cited anonymous sources who claimed Coppola grabbed a microphone after a scene and announced, "Sorry, if I come up to you and kiss you. Just know it’s solely for my pleasure." Two videos posted online purportedly showed Coppola trying to kiss young female extras on the set.

Coppola's lawyers contend the allegations are false and made with "reckless disregard for the truth." They argue that Variety was aware of NDAs signed by cast and crew members prohibiting the release of confidential information and that the publication relied on unreliable sources.

The lawsuit alleges that Coppola provided Variety with evidence refuting the allegations but that the publication refused to retract them. It claims that the alleged libel was "done intentionally" and "with an intent to vex, injure, or annoy."

Coppola denies the accusations and has received support from several individuals who worked with him on the set, including extra Rayna Menz, who appeared in the videos.

Coppola is seeking unspecified damages, punitive damages, coverage of legal costs, and a jury trial.

The lawsuit comes two days after extra Lauren Pagone sued Coppola in Georgia for civil battery, civil assault and negligent failure to prevent sexual harassment, alleging he hugged and kissed her without her consent. Coppola's libel lawsuit does not mention Pagone's suit.

"Megalopolis" is slated for release on September 27 and has been a self-funded project for Coppola.