The host Oprah Winfrey will answer charges of defamation made by the former director of its school for girls in South Africa.
In a ruling Monday, Judge Eduardo Rebreno after refusing to quash the proceedings against Ms. Winfrey, has concluded that the former headmistress Nomvuyo Mzamane had enough evidence to prosecute Oprah.
The trial should take place next March 29 in Philadelphia.
In 2007, Ms. Winfrey had commented on the sex scandal that broke out at the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls. The famous host had suggested in its comments that Ms. Mzamane was not trustworthy and that his school needed a new direction.
In a 128-page ruling, Judge Rebreno said that Ms. Winfrey’s remarks wishing that Ms. Mzamane knew of the assaults that took place in his establishment were harming the reputation of the director and warrant prosecution.
Ms. Mzamane also says it is unable to find work because of the remarks of Ms. Winfrey.
William Hangley, counsel for the host, refused to comment on the judge’s decision to go ahead with the trial.
Ms. Mzamane, a native of Losotho, led a school in Philadelphia before going to South Africa. She recently returned to the United States after his contract was not renewed at the school Oprah.