Legal resolution reinforces the importance of truth in public commentary, affirming MacDonald’s integrity and mission moving forward
CHICAGO, Oct. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Dr. James MacDonald, founding Pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel (HBC), and his legal team have secured yet another legal outcome in Cook County, this time against radio personality Erich “Mancow” Muller and his most recent media outlet, bringing a measure of accountability to an industry long known for reckless rhetoric without consequence.
James MacDonald (PRNewsfoto/Dr. James MacDonald)
Recently resolved, this defamation litigation marks a pivotal moment for public figures maligned by “shock jocks” and other media personalities seeking ratings through caustic commentary. Muller, a longtime radio host known for his provocative on-air style, has previously faced legal challenges and public criticism for his broadcasts.
These cases underscore a growing cultural shift in holding media figures responsible for bending truths and launching unfounded, often fictional attacks on others’ reputations. For decades, “shock jocks” and the platforms on which they broadcast have thrived on sensationalism under the banner of free speech, without regard for the impact of their damaging narratives.
With this outcome, MacDonald completes his six-and-a-half-year insistence that his former church face legal accountability for false statements they made and paid others to make. As a result of these legal actions, MacDonald won nearly $10M from defendants who chose large sum settlements, rather than face verdicts exposing the extent of their egregious slander.
“These lawsuits were about anyone who’s ever been slandered by those who believe their microphone makes them untouchable, or their board seat puts them beyond reach,” stated MacDonald. “So few have the wherewithal to stand up to such bullies. These costly litigations were only ever about defending my integrity as a minister for the sake of those we led. For ourselves, we have never stopped serving the Lord and have no plans to. I am thankful to close this chapter, allowing me to move forward with my name cleared and my focus fully on ministry again.”
In the years since leaving the church, Pastor MacDonald has focused his energy on outreach to post-incarcerated and other men struggling with addiction. His organization, Act Like Men Sobriety Houses, headquartered at “Rock Bottom” in Elgin, Illinois, is a street-level initiative providing safe, faith-based residential housing and recovery programming.
Through this organization and his ministry, MacDonald remains committed to turning hardship into healing—personally, and for the communities he serves.
“I’m ready to turn the page and continue moving forward,” said MacDonald. “My desire is to help shape a future where broken lives are restored, faith is renewed, and the hope of Christ is never out of reach for anyone.”
SOURCE Act Like Men Ministries
