An ongoing legal dispute stemming from a serious cruise ship accident involving entertainer Matt Gilbertson has expanded, with his management agency Watercooler Talent, led by John Farnham’s manager David Wilson, now pursuing compensation.
Wilson is seeking damages from Royal Caribbean Cruises and promoter Atlantis Events, alleging financial loss following Gilbertson’s long recovery and inability to perform.
While Wilson declined to comment publicly, he confirmed to The Advertiser that “there is a legal matter currently in progress.”
Long-term injuries
Gilbertson, who is widely known for his cabaret persona Hans, suffered major injuries in August 2022 after falling around four metres from a stage fitted with hydraulic lifts during a performance aboard the Odyssey of the Seas in the Mediterranean.
The entertainer fractured five vertebrae, broke his coccyx, and shattered his right foot. He spent one week in a Turkish hospital before being transferred to London Bridge Hospital for surgery and rehabilitation.
In a statement released this week, Gilbertson said the physical and psychological impacts of the fall remain ongoing: “This August will mark three years since this horrific incident. Though I strive not to let it show, the physical and emotional consequences remain a part of my daily life and they will be with me for the rest of my life. With that reality in mind, I remain committed to seeing this case resolved in court as swiftly as possible, so that a measure of justice can finally be achieved.”
Gilberston with Angela Bishop who visited him in hosital
Lawsuit alleges negligence in stage operation
Legal proceedings allege that Royal Caribbean and Atlantis Events breached their duty of care by not safely operating the stage lifts during Gilbertson’s performance.
Court documents claim the injuries have caused a “significant loss of income” and may limit his ability to continue working long term.
“The plaintiff’s ability to carry out his performing duties will in any event be curtailed by a significant number of years due to the early onset of degenerative changes due to the injuries sustained,” the filing states.
Gradual return to performing
Gilbertson returned to Australia approximately two months after the incident. While recovering in London, he received visits from several well-known Australians, including David Koch, Natalie Barr, and Angela Bishop.
In a 2023 interview with The Advertiser, he said: “Relieved, and happy to be alive. It’s not an experience I’d ever want to repeat.”