In the latest trial linking talcum powder to mesothelioma, a California man is accusing asbestos in talcum powder of causing his deadly illness. John Maricich is asking a California jury to find that Combe, Incorporated was negligent in failing to warn of the dangers posed by asbestos in its talcum powder products, which he had used throughout his life.
Mesothelioma Lawsuit Cites Asbestos Contamination of Talc
John Maricich and his wife, Kym, filed their lawsuit in March 2024 in California state court after he was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma. His claim indicated that his illness had been caused by his cumulative exposures to asbestos and its fibers, asbestiform talc, asbestos-containing talc, and asbestos-containing limestone provided by a total of 17 defendants involved in manufacturing, distributing, and selling Vi-Jon talcum powder products. By the time of the trial, only one defendant remains: Combe Incorporated.
According to the complaint, Mr. Maricich had been diagnosed with metastatic liver cancer in 2023, and one year later, developed mesothelioma symptoms. The trial proceedings began with opening statements in January of 2025. As is so often the case with mesothelioma, by the time his symptoms had been distinguished from those of his liver cancer, his illness had reached an advanced stage, with limited treatment options. He and his wife later requested and were granted an expedited trial date in anticipation of his approaching death. That trial is going on now, with opening statements being delivered on January 5th and the jury hearing testimony from expert witnesses throughout last week.
Mesothelioma and Talcum Powder Litigation
This mesothelioma case represents just one of tens of thousands of talcum powder lawsuits filed nationwide. Though most are targeting Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower products, many other defendants are being named, as victims across all cases are accusing manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and all others involved in putting talcum powder products in the hands of consumers of product liability. The allegation is that talcum powder cosmetics contained asbestos, which is the only known cause of mesothelioma.
About 90,000 federal talcum powder lawsuits, including many mesothelioma claims, have been consolidated in a multidistrict litigation in New Jersey, which is being overseen by U.S. District Judge Michael Shipp, and bellwether trials meant to help gauge jury responses and potentially influence mesothelioma settlement negotiations have already begun. The ongoing litigation highlights the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure, even at low levels, as well as manufacturers’ potential liability for contaminated products.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net are here to help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608 to learn more.
