The “actual malice” standard applies, and yes is difficult to prove. What would be interesting is for an interviewee such as Ms. Brewer Lane to record the interview herself, including the assurances made by the reporter. Then, if it can be shown that the newspaper printed untrue things and it the recording could prove that they knew them to be false at the time, then he should be able to win a lawsuit.
chances of ever getting such evidence.....asymptotic to zero
Well said.