Robert De Niro, the acclaimed actor and producer, is facing a $12 million lawsuit for gender discrimination from his former assistant, Graham Chase Robinson. The trial has brought to light new details of alleged abusive behavior by De Niro, including his repeated requests for Robinson to scratch his back. Robinson, 41, testified in court that she had suggested De Niro use a back scratcher instead, but he insisted on her doing it because he liked the way she did it. She described the behavior as “creepy” and "disgusting."

Robinson, who worked for De Niro for 11 years until 2019, claims that the actor subjected her to yelling, screaming, and overworking her while underpaying her. She also mentioned her attempts to leave his company multiple times, which led to De Niro threatening to give her a bad recommendation if she didn\'t provide a two-year notice. Robinson became emotional during her testimony, recounting the trauma she endured and how it left her jobless and depressed. She stated that she has suffered from anxiety and depression and hasn\'t been able to find work in four years, despite applying for 638 jobs.

Furthermore, Robinson accused De Niro of using derogatory language, including calling her a “b-ch” after she was hospitalized. She explained that she had gone to De Niro\'s townhouse during a potential fire incident, where she ended up in the emergency room as she was listed as the emergency contact for the security system. When she tried to discuss removing her name from the system, De Niro berated her on the phone and used the derogatory term. Robinson claimed that De Niro would use similar language when he was drinking heavily and frustrated.

In response to the allegations, De Niro\'s representatives have declined to issue any statements at the time.

During the trial, Robinson also testified about her role as De Niro\'s personal assistant, which involved helping him navigate his complicated love life. She claimed that De Niro would use sexist language towards female employees and paid them unequally. However, the defense countered her claims by highlighting that the highest-paid employee under De Niro was a woman and that a male employee in the same company was paid significantly less than Robinson.

The trial has shed light on the contentious relationship between De Niro and Robinson, with both parties seeking substantial damages from each other. Robinson is seeking $12 million for gender discrimination and retaliation, while De Niro is requesting $6 million for breach of loyalty and fiduciary duty.

The trial has captivated audiences as it exposes the alleged abusive behavior of a prominent Hollywood figure. As the proceedings continue, the testimonies of both parties will provide further insight into the dynamics of their working relationship and the impact it had on their lives.