John McTiernan has been handed a one-year sentence for committing perjury during the trial of P.I.-to-the-stars Anthony Pellicano.
During the investigation into Pellicano’s nefarious dealings, it came to light that McTiernan hired him, paying $50,000 to wiretap “Rollerball” producer Charles Roven. McTiernan inititally lied to the FBI about his involvement. He ended up initially pleading guilty in 2007 and being sentenced to four months in prison. However, he withdrew his plea, was ordered to have a new trial and has now ended up being sentenced to one year. He’s also been fined $100,000 and ordered to serve three years probation. He is currently out on bond and his lawyers plan to appeal.
Well, at least something interesting came out of the dreadful “Rollerball.” The once hotly in demand action director — “Predator,” “Die Hard,” “The Hunt For Red October” all bear his name — hit the skids with both “Rollerball” and “Basic,” and of course, this very trial. Last month it was reported he was set to return behind the camera to direct the action pic “Shrapnel” but we imagine producers are now going to look elsewhere. [Deadline]