Fun fact: some jurisdictions have a defamation defense just like that called libel-proof plaintiff. Pretty much the argument is the plaintiff’s reputation is already destroyed so the defendant’s false statements couldn’t have made it worse.

Truth = no liability.

For people in the public eye its even harder.

First you have to prove they lied. Pat didn't lie, he said allegdy. Second Brett did get the money, those are facts.

Next you gotta prove it harmed you. But this doesn't matter if you can't prove it was a lie.