Garth Brooks is Being Sued By a Former Business Partner

GARTH BROOKS is being sued by his former business partner; a woman named Lisa Sanderson. She's asking for $425,000 in unpaid bonus and salary, plus punitive damages.

Sanderson claims she was a big shot Hollywood producer when Garth hired her 20 years ago to jump start his TV and movie career. But she says Garth's ego got in the way of every project she lined up.

For example, he said no to being a sniper in 'Saving Private Ryan' because he, 'Wanted to be the star and was unwilling to share the spotlight with TOM HANKS, MATT DAMON and EDWARD BURNS.'

She says Garth turned down 'Twister' because he didn't want to play second fiddle to a tornado. And, in what sounds like huge sour grapes, Sanderson is also claiming Garth is a tax fraud.

And yes, Garth's people issued a statement.

'Mr. Brooks, of course, denies everything in the lawsuit filed by Lisa Sanderson. Mr. Brooks and Red Strokes Entertainment will take the necessary steps toward resolving this matter through the legal system.'

Check out the entire lawsuit HERE.