Chris Hansen Walks Out of Screening Over Controversial NDA for 'Primetime'

Chris Hansen, the veteran journalist known for his role in 'To Catch a Predator,' recently left an A24 screening of the film 'Primetime' without watching it. The film, which features Robert Pattinson portraying Hansen, is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival but has already stirred controversy before its release.

During an appearance on Fox News' 'Jesse Watters Primetime,' Hansen detailed his experience at A24's New York offices, where he was scheduled for a 10 a.m. private screening. However, he refused to sign a legal agreement that he described as excessively restrictive, claiming it was unlike anything he had encountered in his 40-year career.

According to Hansen, the studio's lawyers sought to have him sign away his rights to his name, image, and brand, as well as any potential legal claims arising from the film. A source from A24 clarified that the request was for a standard non-disclosure agreement (NDA) typically required of preview audiences to prevent spoilers and protect intellectual property. Hansen, however, maintained that the terms were unusually severe.

He clarified that his legal team had already reviewed the agreement and advised against signing it, stating, “This was a very restrictive agreement. I’ve never seen anything quite like it.” He emphasized that he was not willing to compromise his rights, leading to his decision to leave the screening.

Hansen's comments mark a shift from his previous statements, where he expressed enthusiasm about attending the screening. He had recently mentioned on a podcast that A24 was arranging a private showing for him to evaluate the film’s portrayal of his career.

While Hansen has not yet seen 'Primetime,' he noted that others had viewed it without signing an NDA, leading him to question the studio’s concerns regarding his involvement. The film is described as being 'inspired by true events' and is not specifically a biopic about Hansen.

Despite the drama surrounding the film's release, Hansen clarified that he is not seeking any financial gain from it. He stated, “I have no financial stake in this film” and expressed frustration over the timing of A24’s outreach to him. As 'Primetime' prepares for its theatrical release on September 25, Hansen will have to wait to see how his story is depicted on screen.

Source: variety.com