Actress Selma Blair has been charged with two counts of second-degree assault following an alleged disturbance aboard a Delta Air Lines flight from Los Angeles to New York. The 54-year-old Legally Blonde star appeared in Queens Criminal Court on Monday, October 12, 2026, where she pleaded not guilty before being released on $20,000 cash bail.
The charges concern alleged assaults on a police officer and a hospital nurse after the plane landed at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Separately, Blair faces a federal assault allegation connected to what happened during the flight.
Her representatives have attributed the incident to a medical emergency.
What Happened During Selma Blair’s Flight?
According to authorities, Blair was travelling from Los Angeles to New York on Sunday, October 11, when an alleged confrontation occurred with two flight attendants.
Reports indicate that she allegedly punched one crew member and bit another. Both attendants reported injuries, and one was taken to hospital for medical evaluation.
Police detained Blair after the aircraft arrived at JFK Airport at approximately 11 p.m.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by People, Blair allegedly kicked a Port Authority police officer repeatedly while being secured to a stretcher.
The complaint also alleges that she kicked a nurse in the chest at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.
These remain allegations, and Blair has not been convicted of any offence arising from the incident.
Selma Blair’s Team Cites Medical Emergency
A representative for Blair addressed the situation in a statement to People.
“Selma experienced a medical emergency that led to the alleged conduct,” the representative said, adding that she received immediate medical attention and was in stable condition.
During the court hearing, defence attorney Shawn Barnes argued that Blair’s actions were unintentional.
He said the actress had missed several doses of medication used to manage neurological symptoms. He also cited exhaustion and a head injury reportedly sustained during the flight.
Blair publicly disclosed her multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2018 and has since become an advocate for disability rights.
However, the precise medical circumstances surrounding the incident have not been independently established.
What Happens Next in Selma Blair’s Assault Case?
The judge set bail at $20,000 cash or an alternative $60,000 bond. Blair was released after her arraignment.
Her next state court appearance is scheduled for January 2027, while the separate federal matter remains pending.
Delta Air Lines said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward unruly or unlawful behaviour aboard its aircraft.
Known for Cruel Intentions, Legally Blonde and Hellboy, Blair now faces legal proceedings stemming from the alleged incident.
The charges remain unresolved, and her not-guilty plea means the allegations must still be tested through the legal process.
