The writer of 'Luca' and 'Paddington 2', Simon Stephenson, has accused Alexander Payne's 'The Holdovers' of plagiarizing his 2013 screenplay 'Frisco', claiming "line-by-line" theft. Stephenson alleges that Payne had previously received the script for 'Frisco' in 2013 and 2019, before collaborating with writer David Hemingson on 'The Holdovers'. Despite engaging in discussions with the Writers Guild of America, Stephenson was directed to pursue a lawsuit as the most viable option. 'The Holdovers' is up for five Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay, but the current status of the case remains unclear. Payne and Hemingson declined to comment, while representatives for both parties did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Screenwriter Simon Stephenson alleges that the Oscar-nominated screenplay for "The Holdovers" is extremely similar to his own 2013 Black List spec script, "Frisco," and suggests that director Alexander Payne likely read his script. The credited screenwriter for "The Holdovers," David Hemingson, has a background in TV writing and producing. Stephenson's script, "Frisco," had been submitted before Payne began work on "The Holdovers," and there is a paper trail of emails suggesting Payne was aware of it. The WGA has been contacted about the claim, and Payne has stated that he was involved in shaping the "Holdovers" script despite not taking a screen credit.
Screenwriter Simon Stephenson has accused the writer of "The Holdovers," David Hemingson, and director Alexander Payne of plagiarizing his screenplay "Frisco" for the critically acclaimed film. Despite evidence and email exchanges, the Writers Guild of America has not resolved the matter, prompting Stephenson to seek help from the board. The case has sparked internal debate within the guild, but it remains unclear where it currently stands. The allegations have surfaced during the Oscar campaign for "The Holdovers," adding an awkward layer to the situation.
