A lible case- has to show intent. He was a ‘public figure’ at the time too I believe.
But you’re right they’ll settle for a mil or so.
One could say that they turned him in to a “public figure” through their misconduct.
I don't think it will be hard to show intent. What other possible excuse could there have been for that edit, except to make Zimmerman sound racist? Whoever made the edit would get on the witness stand and be ripped to shreds, or will have to say he was told to do it. And then whoever gave the order would be made to squirm.
Remember, the standard is lower than beyond a reasonable doubt.
I would expect that the settlement would be much higher than $1mm.