This story contains discussions of rape or sexual assault that may be disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.
Gary King‘s sexual battery lawsuit has taken a significant turn, with the Below Deck Sailing Yacht star, Bravo and NBC reportedly reaching a conditional settlement with former makeup artist Samantha Suarez. According to newly filed court documents, the case will be dismissed once the parties fulfil the agreed conditions.
Gary King, Bravo and NBC reach conditional settlement in Samantha Suarez’s sexual battery lawsuit
TMZ reported, according to newly filed court documents, Suarez’s legal team informed the court that the parties had reached an agreement. They have 45 days to complete the settlement conditions. A request to dismiss the case is expected to be filed no later than January 15, 2027.
The lawsuit dates back to an alleged incident in 2022, when Suarez was instructed to take a snack to King’s hotel room. She claimed the reality star pressured her to sleep with him. When she tried to leave, he grabbed and restrained her upper body and arms. Suarez further alleged that King used his body to block the door, leaving her afraid that she might be sexually assaulted.
According to her complaint, King eventually let her go when another crew member called and she answered the phone. Suarez also alleged that her boyfriend and colleague, Grey Duddleston, reported the incident. However, she claimed the response focused on Duddleston, who was investigated for allegedly misusing the walkie-talkie system. Both Suarez and Duddleston were eventually fired and placed on a “do not hire” list, according to the lawsuit.
Suarez subsequently filed claims against King, Bravo and NBC, including sexual battery, hostile work environment, retaliation and wrongful termination. The conditional settlement marks a major development in the dispute. However, the case will not be formally dismissed until the agreed conditions are completed.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
