Selma Blair’s attorneys have claimed that she experienced a medical emergency midair, which caused the outburst on a Delta flight to JFK Airport. Her condition reportedly worsened due to missed medication, a recent fall and exhaustion.
Selma Blair’s attorneys cite missed multiple sclerosis medication, a recent fall and exhaustion following her arrest
According to reports, Blair tried to force open the plane’s door during the flight. She then got into a confrontation with airline staff. One attendant was allegedly punched, while another was reportedly bitten. Both attendants received medical attention after the plane landed.
Blair appeared in a New York courtroom on Monday, October 12, after being charged with two counts of second-degree assault. Her attorneys, Shawn Barnes and Joshua Reitzas, argued that several factors may have contributed to her alleged behaviour.
According to Page Six, Barnes explained that the actress had missed several multiple sclerosis medications. He also claimed that Blair had recently fallen and hit her head. Blair was reportedly on an exhausting work schedule and was travelling from Los Angeles to New York.
“These factors coupled with the altitude, resulted in a state of severe confusion and disorientation,” Barnes said.
“This was not an intentional assault,” he continued.
Reitzas asked the judge to consider Blair’s professional achievements, describing his client as “the gold standard.” However, Judge Indira Khan responded, “Ms. Blair should not get special treatment because she is a celebrity.”
The judge set bail at $20,000 cash, $60,000 bond or a $60,000 partially secured bond. Blair pleaded not guilty and was released on bail. Her case was adjourned until January 19, 2027.
E! News reported that Blair allegedly kicked a Port Authority police officer while being carried on a stretcher after the plane landed. The document states: “While [the officer] was securing the defendant on a stretcher, the defendant removed her leg from the stretcher straps and kicked [the officer] repeatedly about the face, neck and chest.”
The FBI and Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the flight incident. The allegations have not been proven in court.
