John Rich Claims Defamation

Country star John Rich has sued a former “Nashville Star” contestant, saying the aspiring singer defamed him by claiming Rich hit him in the face.

Rich filed the lawsuit Monday against Jared Ashley, a contestant during the fourth season of the TV show. Rich claims Ashley entered his private club without permission and had to be removed by security on March 13.

Rich also contends that Ashley defamed him by falsely stating during a radio interview that Rich hit him that night. Rich is part of the musical duo Big & Rich and a former judge on the show.

Ashley said Thursday that Rich’s claims are not true.

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages.