Irrepressible Advice Columnist E. Jean Carroll's Harrowing Journey to Seek Justice

In August 2025, renowned American journalist, author, and advice columnist E. Jean Carroll is at the center of a high-profile legal battle. Two years ago, in 2023, Carroll filed a defamation lawsuit against former President Donald Trump, accusing him of sexually assaulting her in the mid-1990s. The documentary "Ask E. Jean" delves into Carroll's life and her courageous fight for the truth.

The film opens with the details of Carroll's landmark 2019 lawsuit, which was sparked by a New York magazine article in which she alleged that Trump had sexually assaulted her. The legal proceedings that followed were incredibly complex and arduous, both legally and personally. However, the documentary's focus remains on what was most important to Carroll: Trump's public denunciation of her as a liar, which she saw as a direct attack on her credibility as a person and a reporter.

The documentary then takes a step back, exploring Carroll's early career in the New York City media world. Viewers are introduced to her high-energy TV show "Ask E. Jean" and her acclaimed advice column, which had been a lifelong dream. The film also delves into Carroll's personal life, including her childhood fascination with advice columnists and her teenage years as a cheerleader.

Throughout the documentary, the filmmakers skillfully weave together Carroll's past and present, highlighting the contradictions and complexities that have shaped her life. While Carroll is known for her irrepressible spirit and her ability to find humor in even the darkest situations, the film also reveals the deep personal toll that her experiences have taken on her.

Ultimately, "Ask E. Jean" is a powerful exploration of the challenges faced by victims of sexual assault and gender-based violence, and the courage it takes to speak out and seek justice. The documentary serves as a testament to Carroll's unwavering commitment to the truth and her determination to use her platform to empower and support others who have endured similar experiences.