$40 Million Verdict: J&J Faces New Scrutiny in Talc Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit

In a landmark decision that has sent shockwaves through the legal and healthcare industries, Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has been ordered to pay $40 million to two women who developed ovarian cancer after using the company’s talc-based products for decades. This verdict, delivered by a California jury on December 12, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle over the safety of talcum powder and its potential link to ovarian cancer. With over 67,000 similar cases pending against J&J, this ruling could set the stage for future litigation and significantly impact the company’s financial future.

The Case: Kent and Schultz vs. Johnson & Johnson

The plaintiffs, Monica Kent and Deborah Schultz, alleged that their ovarian cancer was a direct result of using J&J’s Shower-to-Shower hygiene powders for over 40 years. The jury found that J&J was negligent, failed to adequately warn of the products’ dangers, and made false/misleading misrepresentations, all of which were substantial factors in causing both women’s cancer. Specifically, the jury concluded that the company failed to adequately warn consumers about the potential risk of ovarian cancer linked to asbestos contamination in its talc-based products.

Kent was awarded $18 million, while Schultz and her husband received $22 million. While the jury found J&J liable, they did not find that the company acted with malice or fraud, and thus, no punitive damages were issued.

A Bellwether Trial

This case was the first of three “bellwether” trials scheduled in California state court. Bellwether trials are designed to provide insight into how juries might respond to evidence and testimony that is expected to recur across numerous similar lawsuits. This verdict suggests that juries are increasingly willing to hold J&J accountable for failing to warn consumers about the potential risks associated with its talc-based products.

The Allegations: Asbestos Contamination and Failure to Warn

At the heart of the talc lawsuits against J&J lies the allegation that the company’s talc-based products were contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen. Plaintiffs in these cases contend that J&J knew about the potential for asbestos contamination as far back as the 1970s but failed to adequately warn consumers about the risk.

Internal documents presented during trials have suggested that J&J was aware of the potential for asbestos contamination but prioritized brand protection over consumer safety. These documents have fueled claims that the company misled the public and regulators, suppressed scientific findings, and manipulated research to downplay the risks associated with talc-based products.

J&J’s Response and Legal Strategy

Johnson & Johnson maintains that its talc-based products are safe and do not cause cancer. The company has consistently denied any link between its talc products and ovarian cancer, arguing that the scientific evidence does not support the plaintiffs’ claims. Erik Haas, Johnson & Johnson’s worldwide vice-president of litigation, stated that the company plans to “immediately appeal this verdict and expect to prevail as we typically do with aberrant adverse verdicts”.

In recent years, J&J has pursued a controversial legal strategy known as the “Texas two-step,” which involves creating a subsidiary to absorb talc-related liabilities and then filing for bankruptcy. The goal of this strategy is to consolidate the talc lawsuits into bankruptcy court and negotiate a global settlement. However, J&J’s attempts to resolve the talc litigation through bankruptcy have faced significant legal challenges. In April 2025, a U.S. bankruptcy judge rejected J&J’s $8 billion talc settlement proposal, marking the company’s third failed attempt to use bankruptcy to settle their talc liabilities. The court found the bankruptcy filing was not made in good faith, noting that J&J is a financially healthy corporation and cannot use bankruptcy to shield the company from liability.

The Science: Is There a Link Between Talc and Ovarian Cancer?

The scientific evidence linking talc to ovarian cancer is mixed. Some studies have found a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer among women who used talcum powder in the genital area, while others have found no significant association.

One of the challenges in studying the potential link between talc and ovarian cancer is the difficulty in accurately assessing long-term talc use. Many studies rely on women’s recall of their talc usage from years earlier, which can be subject to bias. Additionally, some studies may not adequately account for other risk factors for ovarian cancer, such as genetics, age, and reproductive history.

While some studies suggest a potential link between talc and ovarian cancer, the overall evidence remains inconclusive. More research is needed to fully understand the potential risks associated with talc-based products.

What This Means for Future Litigation

The $40 million verdict against J&J could have significant implications for future talc litigation. The verdict may embolden other plaintiffs to pursue their claims against J&J and could lead to increased settlement demands. It also puts additional pressure on J&J to reach a global settlement to resolve the thousands of pending talc lawsuits.

However, it is important to note that this verdict is just one data point in a complex and ongoing legal battle. J&J has won some talc trials outright and has had other verdicts reduced on appeal. The company is likely to continue to vigorously defend itself against the talc claims, and the ultimate outcome of the litigation remains uncertain.

Advice for Consumers

If you have used talc-based products, particularly in the genital area, and are concerned about the potential risk of ovarian cancer, here are some steps you can take:

Talk to your doctor: Discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider and ask about your individual risk factors for ovarian cancer.
Consider alternative products: If you are concerned about the potential risks of talc, consider using cornstarch-based powders or other talc-free alternatives.
Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest scientific research and legal developments related to talc and ovarian cancer.

Legal Options for Victims

If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using talc-based products, you may have legal options. An attorney can help you understand your rights and determine whether you are eligible to file a lawsuit against the manufacturers of talc-based products. Compensation from a talc ovarian cancer lawsuit can help with medical bills, lost income, and more.

Conclusion

The $40 million verdict against Johnson & Johnson marks a significant development in the ongoing talc litigation. While the scientific evidence linking talc to ovarian cancer remains mixed, juries are increasingly holding J&J accountable for failing to warn consumers about the potential risks associated with its talc-based products. As the litigation continues to unfold, it is important for consumers to stay informed and for victims to explore their legal options.