Diet Coke Model Sues Over Brain Injury

Andrew Cooper, 43, who gained fame from the 2013 Diet Coke commercial, alleges that he sustained a significant injury when he accidentally collided with a fellow model during a shoot.

The incident occurred while filming an advertisement for Orlebar Brown, a luxury beachwear brand owned by Chanel, on a beach in Puglia, Italy.  

Mr. Cooper asserts that the injury has severely impacted his career. Cooper is now seeking £4.1 million in damages from Orlebar Brown, forcing him to decline lucrative modelling, acting, and social media influencer opportunities.

He contends that during the shoot, he was instructed to run down a sand dune with another model, leading to the collision that left him concussed. The resulting brain injury, he claims, has caused ongoing health issues, including post-concussion syndrome, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, ear damage, and a balance disorder that triggers migraines and headaches.

Having worked with prestigious brands like Dunhill, Armani, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, and Ralph Lauren, Cooper's injury has reportedly diminished his ability to accept high paying contracts. His legal team argues that his condition has particularly affected his capacity to participate in work involving flashing lights, memorising lines, or performing action scenes.

The lawsuit has been brought before the High Court in London, where Cooper is seeking damages for lost income, both past and future.  Orlebar Brown, known for its high-end tailored swimwear, has denied liability, attributing blame to the agency responsible for the shoot, Tom Hingston Studio Ltd. However, the agency also denies responsibility, with its barrister stating in court that "accidents happen without negligence."

In a statement outside the court, Mr. Cooper expressed the profound impact the incident has had on his life, stating that it has "turned my whole life upside down." The case is set for a four-day trial next year to determine liability.

Broadgate Legal 

Compensation Solicitors