Workplace Harassment in the Media and Entertainment Industry

Why is harassment so prevalent in the media/Hollywood/entertainment/music industry?

It is no secret that the entertainment industry is full of stories and incidents of harassment and violence. While the #MeToo movement has made it apparent that the pervasiveness of this colossal problem extends to different sectors, the entertainment and media industry has undeniably been confronted with a series of revelations from many victims.

Whether on social media or in news outlets, we have seen anecdotes and reports of serious cases involving some of the industry’s most influential personalities, like the infamous Harvey Weinstein. Even more alarming is that this is only the tip of the iceberg. A large portion of what we are witnessing are sexual harassment cases. But like in any other sector, other systemic problems exist in the entertainment industry, such as racial and gender discrimination, bullying, violence, and microaggression. What factors could influence the existence of the many forms of harassment in this particular industry?

According to a study published by the International Labour Organization (ILO), several of these factors include “the way the industry is organized, its organizational culture, and the diverse employment relationships” that are present in the system. Related to this research information, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) identifies workplaces with significant power disparities and “high-value” employees as risk factors for harassment.

Like any other industry such as in politics and government, as well as in giant tech companies — power, influence, and fame are the main determinants of success in the entertainment industry. Sadly, when used to tolerate inappropriate behavior, these can also be the downfall of anyone. Anecdotes from people who have had to endure hostile work environments prove that high-profile figures are very capable of abusing their power.

Project WHEN’s research on the factors that lead to harassment in the workplace also reveals that culture, organizational structure, and image/reputation can impact behavior in workplaces within the entertainment and media sector. Power dynamics in this industry allow for a work culture where misconduct is usually overlooked or not reported for fear of career repercussions.

In the entertainment industry, allegations of sexual abuse are frequently kept a secret by coercion and intimidation from powerful people and organizations. Publicly exposing misconduct by influential and well-known entities can be incredibly challenging.

Image or reputation, an important element of people’s careers in entertainment, can also affect how harassment is handled in certain situations. For instance, news about a famous celebrity involved in a harassment incident can easily get covered up, especially if it would save their reputation and the sustainability of a show they are starring in. Many variables can come into play which is why harassment in the entertainment industry has become a systemic problem that requires a sectoral approach.

However, much like all sexual misconduct, sexual assault in the entertainment industry is illegal and should be addressed through criminal and civil sanctions. Celebrities who are famous and wealthy shouldn’t be shielded from the consequences of their criminal activity.

In this page, we will explore what can be done by management, celebrities, and bystanders to address workplace harassment. You’ll also find a list of real harassment examples in the entertainment and media industry.

Film & music production sets, talent agencies, and broadcast television networks are all affected by harassment, so what can management/leadership do about it?

As emphasized by the U.S. EEOC Select Task Force on the Study of Harassment in the Workplace, “Preventing harassment from occurring in the first place is far preferable to remedying its consequences.” We at Project WHEN also believe that one of the most effective and greatest steps the public can take to eliminate harassment is to act on it before it even happens. How is this possible?

Law compliance should be a top priority, but abiding by the law is just doing the bare minimum. More must be done to uproot the destructive practices in a work environment. These practices can be identified by taking a holistic approach to examining the company’s work culture.

When it comes to work culture, it is vital to cultivate a trusting relationship between all members of a functional team or organization. When there is trust, there is also an authentic sense of security. Employees will feel safe stepping into the workplace every day, knowing that no matter what happens, the company has their back. This is connected to establishing a sense of accountability in the workplace.

To hold the entire organization accountable, it is important to articulate to all employees, customers, and the community that the company, agency, or team is genuinely committed to creating a safe space for everyone. By enrolling in the WHEN Organizational Certification, organizations will be making a powerful declaration of their commitment to foster a harassment-free and respectful workplace. Importantly, through this certification, enrollees will be guided through a step-by-step process of exploring the best practices for preventing all types of harassment. 

We also believe that building a respectful work culture is the key to preventing workplace harassment. Advocating for this type of culture is most effective when it starts from leadership teams, cascading down to everyone in the community. Sitting down in an intimate setting to discuss the challenges experienced in the industry today could be a great eye-opener, making stakeholders realize the significance of their role in the fight against harassment.

If this sounds like something that would greatly benefit your organization, consider partnering with us to host a Project WHEN Roundtable within your company or local business community. We will work with you to create a forum where everyone feels safe to share their observations, ideas, and concerns about workplace harassment challenges and what can be done to overcome those.

What can celebrities, staff members, and bystanders do about it?

In as much as managers and industry leaders are expected to be responsible for preventing harassment in the workplace, celebrities, staff members, and the public do have their own share of responsibility. Recognizing one’s role in the fight against this pervasive problem goes a long way. If disrespectful behavior is being overlooked or even tolerated in the workplace, acknowledging the situation is a crucial first step. 

Many people, however, find it difficult to speak up about what they experienced or what they saw in fear of retaliation or losing their careers. Whether one is a victim or a bystander, harassment is unforgiving. It has a detrimental effect on everyone within its reach. 

This is why awareness about one’s rights under the law is important. It is necessary for victims and bystanders to realize that speaking up about harassment or discrimination is protected under federal and state laws. If you are looking to learn how the law offers protection to employees from the different types of discrimination, refer to our resources to fight harassment in the workplace. This page contains our curated set of resources that can help the public begin their journey towards awareness.

Driving change in our places of employment may seem like a long and impossible feat, but everyone has the power to make a difference. If you are interested in leading your team towards a more respectful work culture or sparking change within your community, pursuing WHEN™ Professional Certification can equip you with the necessary tools and knowledge that you need to be an anti-harassment practitioner.

How does Project WHEN help?

Project WHEN is working hard to spread the important message and encourage organizations to create a more respectful work culture. While we believe that awareness is important, having a means to directly help victims of harassment would have a huge impact. It is why in addition to expanding our resources for companies and employees, we are working on establishing a victim support hotline.

We aim to offer support to victims by connecting them with someone who can guide them through what they can do to address the problem while being a pillar of emotional support. Our hope is to widen our reach and let everyone know that workplace harassment needs to end now and if this is something one is battling with, help is available. 

If you find value in this cause, consider supporting us by making a financial donation to help us further our work. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on financial support from corporations and individuals to enable us to continue on our important mission of making workplaces everywhere more respectful. Donations made to us are tax-deductible.

Want to know about other ways that you can support us? Visit the following link to know how you can get involved with Project WHEN.

Examples of Workplace Harassment in the Entertainment Industry

Stories of harassment, cases, and lawsuits are often seen in the news today. It is true that in terms of eliminating this systemic issue, we still have a long way to go. But many are also finding the courage to speak up about it in hopes of sparking change. Below are some examples of workplace harassment in the entertainment and media industry that have been reported recently.

Sexual Harassment Case Against Bravo and Shed Media – 1/22/2024

Bravo and Shed Media are pushing back against a lawsuit brought by Marco Vega, a butler on the Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip, who alleges sexual harassment by Brandi Glanville and Phaedra Parks. Vega claims Bravo had prior knowledge of Glanville’s behavior but continued to hire her, encouraging her to engage in sexually aggressive conduct. Phaedra’s involvement includes allegations of encouraging inebriation and inappropriate behavior. Bravo argues the case was filed in the wrong state, some claims are beyond the statute of limitations, and the allegations lack specificity. The lawsuit is pending, awaiting a judge’s ruling on Bravo’s request to dismiss.

Sexual Harassment at Cumulus Media – 1/19/2024

Justin Nettlebeck, former producer and co-host of “Q101” WKQX Chicago morning show, has filed a lawsuit against Cumulus Media alleging harassment, discriminatory treatment, and retaliation. Nettlebeck claims he was subjected to abusive behavior by then-Cumulus VP/Rock Formats and WKQX Program Director Troy Hanson, including graphic sexual remarks and threats. Despite reporting Hanson’s behavior to VP/Market Manager Marv Nyren, Nettlebeck alleges he faced further harassment and damaging treatment. The lawsuit, filed in December after Nettlebeck lodged charges with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Illinois Department of Human Rights, seeks compensation and a trial by jury.

Sexual Harassment Conviction of Jonathan Majors – 1/7/2024

Jonathan Majors has been fired from Marvel following a sexual harassment conviction, leading to speculation about Will Smith replacing him. However, a source has refuted the rumors, stating that recasting with Smith, who has a history in superhero movies, would be like “replacing baggage with more baggage.” Discussions about whether to recast or rewrite will continue for months, but Will Smith is not expected to be the replacement.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against James Franco – 12/29/2023

James Franco, faced significant career repercussions following sexual harassment allegations, notably surfacing after he wore a Time’s Up pin at the 2018 Golden Globe Awards. Accusers, including co-star Ally Sheedy, detailed incidents ranging from pressure for topless scenes to more severe claims of sexual coercion. Franco responded with a mix of denial and support for victims’ rights, stating on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, “The things that I heard that were on Twitter are not accurate.” The allegations had a profound impact on Franco’s career, prompting him to skip awards events, illustrating the complexities of fame amid serious accusations in Hollywood.

Sexual Harassment at H+ The Hip Hop Dance Conservatory – 12/21/2023

H+ The Hip Hop Dance Conservatory, a Manhattan-based dance company, has settled with the New York Attorney General for $10,000 over labor law violations and failure to address sexual harassment claims. The settlement follows an investigation revealing that H+ charged for dance classes purportedly staffed by volunteers, while company leaders, including founder Safi Thomas, pocketed the funds. The investigation also exposed a hostile work environment created by Thomas, involving unequal treatment and sexual harassment of women employees. As part of the settlement, H+ will pay unpaid wages, implement anti-discrimination and anti-sexual harassment training, and ensure proper worker classification and wages.

Sexual Harassment at Hollywood – 12/18/2023

Actor Christian Keyes, known for his roles in various films and TV shows, revealed in an Instagram Live session that he endured years of alleged sexual harassment from a powerful figure in Hollywood. Keyes claimed that the individual offered him $100,000 to undress but refused to compromise his integrity. The actor disclosed that he has been secretly recording these encounters for years using devices like digital voice recorder pens and keychains. Keyes aims to expose the alleged misconduct not for personal gain but to protect others from similar experiences. He mentioned the individual’s claims of having a roster of young black men on his payroll for similar purposes and expressed readiness to present his evidence, including recordings, to the authorities.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Vin Diesel – 12/22/2023

Asta Jonason has filed a lawsuit accusing Vin Diesel, star of “Fast & Furious,” of forcibly touching, kissing, and masturbating in front of her during the filming of the fifth movie in Atlanta. Jonason, hired as Diesel’s assistant by One Race, Diesel’s production company, alleges that the assault took place after a night of entertainment in a hotel suite. She claims to have rejected Diesel’s advances, but the next day, she was fired by Samantha Vincent, Diesel’s sister and president of One Race. Jonason, inspired by the #MeToo movement, seeks compensation for emotional harm and labor rights violations.

Sexual Misconduct Allegations at A3 Artists Agency – 12/5/2023

A lawsuit has been filed against Adam Bold, the majority owner of talent representation firm A3 Artists Agency, by his partners accusing him of sexual misconduct and mismanagement of the company. The suit alleges that Bold, who acquired a majority stake in the agency in 2018, has engaged in overspending, pushed for a sale of parts of A3 to rival agency Gersh, and created a toxic workplace environment. The partners also accuse Bold of sexual harassment and creating a reputation as an “office creep” and “sex pest.” Bold denies the allegations, calling the lawsuit a “shake down” and “pure extortion.

Sexual Harassment at Newsmax – 11/21/2023

Chris Knowles, the Vice President of Programming at Newsmax, is facing allegations of sexual harassment, according to a report publishe. Multiple Newsmax staffers claim Knowles engaged in inappropriate behavior, including sending out explicit photos without consent and making unwelcome advances towards female subordinates. Although some employees reportedly lodged complaints with the HR department, there appears to be minimal action taken, with Knowles allegedly receiving only a warning. Newsmax has not yet responded to the allegations, while Knowles vehemently denies any inappropriate relationships with staff, and his spokesperson criticizes the report as false or misleading.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Guns ‘N’ Roses – 11/15/2023

Photographer Katarina Benzova has filed a lawsuit against Guns ‘N’ Roses, alleging copyright infringement and sexual harassment by manager Fernando Lebeis. The suit, filed on November 11, claims the band used her photos without permission, altered them to conceal infringement, and engaged in aggressive copyright practices after termination of rights. Benzova also accuses Lebeis of unwanted sexual advances, leading to hostility, bullying, and discrimination when she rejected him. Guns ‘N’ Roses responded, asserting her contract clearly states photo ownership by the band, and counter-sued for copyright invalidity.

Sexual Harassment at Kobalt Music Group – 10/25/2023

Kobalt Music Group faces a sexual harassment lawsuit as songwriter Nataliya Nikitenko accuses former executive Sam Taylor of leveraging his power for sexual favors. The complaint alleges “quid pro quo sexual harassment,” emphasizing Taylor’s exploitation of Nikitenko’s career vulnerability. Filed anonymously as Jane Doe, the lawsuit claims Kobalt and executives were aware of Taylor’s impropriety but failed to address complaints, prioritizing profits over safety. Despite Taylor’s 2019 termination, Nikitenko asserts Kobalt retaliated after she made her allegations public, underscoring broader issues of workplace harassment in the music industry.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Robert De Niro – 10/30/2023

Robert De Niro faced accusations from his former assistant, Graham Chase Robinson, in a Manhattan court where the Oscar winner vehemently denied allegations of sexual harassment and bullying. Dressed in a green polo shirt and jacket, the 80-year-old actor dismissed the claims as “nonsense.” The legal battle originated in 2019 when De Niro’s production company sued Robinson, alleging embezzlement and misconduct. Robinson retaliated with a $12 million suit, claiming inappropriate behavior and an expectation to fulfill duties inconsistent with her role. The trial, expected to last two weeks, sheds light on the ongoing feud between the two parties.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Kris Jenner – 10/27/2023

Kris Jenner, the matriarch of the Kardashian-Jenner family, is no longer facing a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by her former bodyguard, Marc McWilliams. Three years after accusing Jenner of inappropriate conduct, McWilliams has unexpectedly requested the dismissal of the entire legal action. The initial lawsuit, filed in 2020, alleged sexual harassment, a hostile work environment, and discrimination. While Jenner and her legal representation vehemently denied the accusations, the sudden move by McWilliams to dismiss the suit against all parties, including Kourtney Kardashian and security companies, adds a surprising twist to the case. The reasons behind McWilliams’ request for dismissal remain undisclosed.

Sexual Harassment Allegation Against Danny Elfman – 10/20/2023

Danny Elfman is facing a second lawsuit from a woman, referred to as Jane Doe XX, who alleges sexual harassment dating from 1997 to 2002. Elfman, a prominent Hollywood composer, has vehemently denied the accusations, characterizing them as “baseless and absurd.” The lawsuit reveals disturbing details of Elfman allegedly exposing himself and coercing Jane Doe XX into participating. This lawsuit emerged following previous allegations made by another individual, Nomi Abadi, who claimed Elfman acted similarly in 2015 and 2016. Elfman denied those allegations, asserting their interactions were consensual.

Harassment and Discrimination at Berkeley Community Media (BCM) – 10/17/2023

Three members of Berkeley Community Media (BCM), a local public access television station, have resigned, highlighting an unsafe and hostile work environment. The three resigning members, who were the only women of color on the board, cited discrimination and harassment as their reasons for leaving in their resignation letter. The issues date back to May 2022 and involve reports of microaggressions, racism, and sexual harassment by a BCM member and an intern. Despite the allegations, BCM leadership was accused of disregarding the claims and even victim-blaming, which ultimately led to the resignations.

Gender and Racial Discrimination and Retaliation at CBS – 10/10/2023

Former “60 Minutes” producer Alexandra Poolos has filed a lawsuit against CBS, alleging gender discrimination, retaliation, and breach of contract. She claims she was fired in 2022 after being accused of bullying an associate producer, and she accuses CBS of mishandling her termination. Poolos alleges that CBS had a workplace culture dominated by “sexism and misogyny.” She points out that CBS took harsh actions against her while not similarly disciplining male employees for serious allegations. Poolos also mentions former CBS News president Neeraj Khemlani, asserting that the network failed to take swift action against him despite multiple complaints of abusive behavior from women and employees of color.

Sexual Harassment at ABC News – 10/10/2023

ABC News has reached a settlement with former Good Morning America producer Kirstyn Crawford, who accused the show’s former executive producer, Michael Corn, of sexual misconduct. Crawford filed a lawsuit in August 2021, alleging that Corn sexually assaulted her during a business trip in 2015. Michael Corn, now the top executive of NewsNation, denied the allegations. In a joint statement, ABC News praised Crawford for her courage in coming forward, and Crawford expressed gratitude for ABC’s prompt response to her claims.

Sexual Harassment Allegation Against Jason Derulo – 10/9/2023

Singer Emaza Gibson has filed a lawsuit against Jason Derulo, alleging quid pro quo sexual harassment and aggressive behavior during their time working together. Gibson, who signed with Derulo’s label in August 2021, claims that Derulo repeatedly made unwanted sexual advances, implied she needed to have sex with him to advance her career, and caused her to fear for her safety. She further alleges that Derulo dropped her from the label after she rejected his advances, including an “explicit demand for sex-in-exchange-for-success.” In response, Derulo posted an Instagram video denying the claims, stating they are “false and hurtful” and asserting his support for those pursuing their dreams.

Sexual Harassment Allegation Against Bryan Fuller – 10/6/2023

Bryan Fuller, creator of TV series like “Hannibal” and “American Gods,” is facing a lawsuit accusing him of sexually harassing a fellow producer, Sam Wineman, during their work on an AMC docuseries about queer horror. Wineman alleges that Fuller created a hostile work environment, made constant references to masturbation, and bullied him. The suit also claims that Fuller engaged in inappropriate physical contact, pressing his penis against Wineman’s buttocks when holding him from behind. Wineman was removed from the project in August 2021, about a month after reporting Fuller’s behavior. AMC is reviewing the lawsuit, and Fuller’s attorney denies the allegations, stating that Wineman was fired for incompetence.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Tim Ballard – 9/28/2023

Tim Ballard, the founder of Operation Underground Railroad (OUR), has been accused of spiritual manipulation and sexual harassment by anonymous women involved in the organization’s fight against human trafficking. They allege that his behavior crossed the line, involving sexual misconduct, grooming, and manipulation. After an independent investigation, Tim Ballard resigned from OUR. The women, represented by attorney Suzette Rasmussen, have chosen to remain anonymous but are committed to healing and encouraging others to come forward. OUR has confirmed receipt of misconduct allegations and remains dedicated to its mission of combatting human trafficking.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Justin Roiland – 9/14/2023

Justin Roiland, the creator of ‘Rick and Morty’, has denied allegations of sexually harassing or molesting younger fans. These accusations arose following a report by NBC News, which detailed inappropriate conversations of a sexual nature that Roiland allegedly engaged in with candidates he was interviewing, spanning from 2013 to 2022. The report is based on 11 interviews and includes claims that Roiland shifted conversations to a sexual nature via text, email, and social media with both women and non-binary individuals, some of whom were allegedly 16 years old when the correspondences began. Roiland’s lawyer, Andrew Brettler, referred to the allegations as “false and defamatory.

Sexual Harassment Aleegation Against Craig Ferguson – 9/12/2023

Craig Ferguson and the corporate entities affiliated with Planet Bluegrass have responded to a sexual harassment lawsuit filed against them. The lawsuit, filed by a former employee, alleges “persistent, outrageous, and violent sexual harassment.” In their responses, the defendants have filed motions to dismiss the charges, contesting their validity on various grounds. Ferguson, in his 10-page answer, denies many of the allegations and provides context to clarify the intent behind his text messages. The case is expected to proceed unless an out-of-court settlement is reached, with a trial estimated to be about a year away, depending on the judge’s orders regarding the motions to dismiss.

Harassment and Discrimination Allegation Against Todrick Hall – 8/21/2023

Former Celebrity Big Brother contestant Todrick Hall has faced multiple lawsuits, including one from Showroom Interiors for $126,000 regarding unpaid furniture bills from 2021 and another from landlords seeking $60,000 in back rent from March 2022. Additionally, Hall’s former assistant, identified as John Doe, filed a lawsuit alleging labor code violations, harassment, and discrimination. John Doe claimed consistent underpayment, excessive work hours, and personal expenses paid out of pocket, leading to emotional distress. The suit also contained allegations of sexual harassment, with Todrick asking personal questions and sharing explicit content. The case was settled in March 2023, with John Doe seeking unpaid wages and expense reimbursement.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Rodger Cleye – 8/14/2023

Rodger Cleye, a TikTok influencer with over 3 million followers known for his singing videos, has been accused of sexual harassment by 19-year-old Olivia McCraw. In a TikTok video, McCraw alleges that during a visit, Cleye made unwanted advances, including kissing her after leaving the bathroom door open. McCraw felt coerced into the situation due to fear and the isolated environment. McCraw has shared evidence of their interactions, including Cleye’s claims that she flirted with him and manipulated him, which she denies. Cleye’s online presence has seen backlash, with followers expressing concern about his association with a much younger person.

Sexual Harassment at the set of Bravo’s Below Deck Down Under – 8/11/2023

Luke Jones and Laura Bileskalne, two crew members from Bravo’s Below Deck Down Under season 2, were swiftly fired following incidents of sexual misconduct that occurred after a night off the boat. In the episode, bosun Luke Jones entered the bed of stewardess Margot Sisson naked and without her consent while she was asleep, leading to his immediate termination by Captain Jason Chambers. Second stew Laura Bileskalne was also dismissed for her inappropriate response to the incident and her disregard for boundaries with deckhand Adam Kodra.

Sexual Harassment Allegation Against Chris Noth – 8/7/2023

Chris Noth, an actor known for his roles in television shows like “Sex and the City” and “Law & Order,” has responded to sexual misconduct allegations made against him. Two women have accused Noth of sexual misconduct during encounters that took place several years ago. In response, Noth denied the allegations, stating that the encounters were consensual and that he believed the relationships were mutual.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Director Albert Alarr – 8/6/2023

Albert Alarr, a longtime director and producer on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” is leaving the series amid allegations of misconduct. The departure was confirmed by executive producer Ken Corday, who announced that Janet Drucker would be elevated to co-executive producer as a replacement. The allegations against Alarr included inappropriate comments, touching, groping, and forceful kissing, as revealed after a gender disparity complaint led to an investigation. Alarr denied many of the claims, stating they were false or taken out of context, and criticized the decision to remove him from his role. Multiple cast members signed a petition requesting his removal, and former cast member Farah Galfond recounted her uncomfortable experience working with Alarr in a social media post.

Sexual, Racial, and Religious Harassment Against Lizzo – 8/2/2023

Former dancers for Lizzo, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, have filed a lawsuit in California Supreme Court, accusing the singer and her team of sexual, racial, and religious harassment. The dancers claim a hostile work environment, with incidents of harassment and coercion. Lizzo allegedly berated one dancer for recording a meeting due to an eye condition, and the captain of her dance team, Shirlene Quigley, is accused of attempting to convert dancers to her religion and discussing inappropriate topics. The plaintiffs seek damages and benefits for civil rights violations under the Fair Employment and Housing Act.

Gender Discrimination at WBIG-FM – 7/30/2023

Radio host Don Geronimo, known as Michael Sorce, has been fired by WBIG-FM after making derogatory comments about WUSA-TV’s Sharla McBride during coverage of the Washington Commanders training camp. Geronimo referred to McBride as “Barbie,” speculated about her background, and used disrespectful language. The Commanders banned Geronimo and his producer from broadcasting from the camp. McBride expressed feeling insulted and embarrassed by the remarks, highlighting the sexist and misogynistic nature of the comments. The incident prompted a swift response from the Commanders and reflects their commitment to addressing workplace misconduct and harassment.

Sexual Harassment and Retaliation at the set of “Days of Our Lives” – 7/26/2023

Actress Lisa Rinna has described the conditions on the set of “Days of Our Lives” under director/EP Albert Alarr as “disgusting” after he was accused of misconduct, including groping, on the Peacock soap opera. Rinna took to Instagram to express her shock and disappointment with the work environment and claimed that she had informed multiple people, including Alarr, about the issues but nothing was done until now. Alarr also faces accusations of retaliatory firing after a star complained about his handling of an intimate scene. The allegations came to light after a female staffer raised concerns about gender pay disparities and layoffs affecting women on the show.

Sexual Harassment and Discrimination at ITV and NBCUniversal – 7/23/2023

Former Love Island USA crew members Jasmine Crestwell and Alex Rinks are suing producers ITV and NBCUniversal, alleging abusive practices and labor law violations. The lawsuit claims that female contestants were pressured into sexual relationships without genuine consent, and producers made inappropriate comments about their private moments. Producers with a history of racism and abusive practices were allegedly brought in to boost ratings. Jasmine and Alex were terminated after voicing concerns about contestant treatment and safety, leading them to file a lawsuit alleging retaliation for protected complaints of discrimination and OSHA violations.

Sexual Harassment Allegation Against Steven Crowder – 7/21/2023

Far-right media personality Steven Crowder has been accused of sexual misconduct and creating a hostile work environment by five former staff members on his show Louder with Crowder. The accusations include sending unsolicited photos of his genitals to co-workers and exposing himself in person to employees. Some former employees describe his behavior as “groomer-ish” and suggest he enjoyed the discomfort it caused others. Crowder has previously falsely accused teachers of “grooming” children, and right-wing extremists have used the “groomer” smear to target members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Danny Elfman – 7/20/2023

Danny Elfman is facing a lawsuit for allegedly failing to make settlement payments over allegations of sexual harassment made by Nomi Abadi. The award-winning composer had agreed to pay Abadi $830,000 in a non-disclosure agreement after she accused him of harassing her in 2015 and 2016, which he denied. Rolling Stone magazine uncovered a police report filed by Abadi, claiming that Elfman exposed himself and masturbated in front of her. Elfman denies the allegations, stating they are false and part of an attempt for revenge after he rejected her advances. The latest lawsuit accuses Elfman of breaching the settlement agreement, which included making four payments over five years.

Sexual Harassment at Hollywood – 7/12/2023

Sharon Stone, a Hollywood veteran, responded to a question about sexual harassment in her 40-year career with a biting laugh during a 2018 interview. Her incredulous reaction highlighted the industry’s mistreatment of women and the absurdity of doubting her experiences. Stone’s confident demeanor emphasized the challenges she faced as a woman in Hollywood, while serving as a reminder of the darker side of the glamorous industry. Her resilience and courage throughout her career inspire reflection on the obstacles faced by women in entertainment.

Discrimination and Harassment at Broadway – 7/7/2023

Andrew Rannells, a well-known Broadway actor and author, opens up about his experiences in the entertainment industry, including instances of discrimination and harassment. Rannells recounts being replaced in a Broadway role for a younger and straighter actor, highlighting the prevalent ageism and heteronormativity in the industry. He also discusses his journey of self-discovery, dealing with sexual abuse in his past, and navigating relationships as a gay man. Rannells emphasizes the importance of representation in the arts and expresses concern over the rise of anti-LGBTQ sentiments and legislation.

Sexual Harassment of Harvey Weinstein – 6/27/2023

Harvey Weinstein, the iconic former movie producer, has been accused of sexual harassment and rape by over 100 women, including high-profile celebrities such as Ashley Judd and Rose McGowan. Weinstein denied all claims of non-consensual sex. Weinstein was found guilty of rape and illegal sexual conduct in New York, resulting in a 23-year jail sentence, and later found guilty of rape and other crimes in Los Angeles, resulting in a 16-year sentence. The convictions came after other women sued Weinstein in various locales.

Sexual Harassment And Discrimination Allegations Against Demi Moore – 6/20/2023

Lawrence Bass, the former manager of Demi Moore’s Idaho property, has sued the actress for sexual harassment and discrimination. Bass claims that Moore touched him inappropriately and approached him in a similar manner as depicted in the movie “Disclosure.” He further alleges that Moore fired him after he refused to engage in amorous activities. Moore’s lawyer denies the allegations, considering the lawsuit “ridiculous” and “without merit.”

Sex and Race Discrimination at KSTP-TV – 6/19/2023

Crystal Bui, a former news reporter for KSTP-TV, has accused the station of sexism and unsafe work practices in her self-published book, “More to Tell.” She claims that the station didn’t prioritize her safety during coverage of protests following George Floyd’s death. Bui also alleges gender and race-based discrimination, being silenced in meetings, and being overlooked for assignments. She accuses a staff photographer of sexual harassment.

Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against Actor Cuba Gooding Jr. – 6/6/2023

Actor Cuba Gooding Jr. is facing a civil trial where he is accused of raping a woman in a New York City hotel ten years ago. The plaintiff alleges that Gooding met her in Manhattan, convinced her to go to a hotel, and then raped her in his room. Gooding argues that the encounter was consensual, and his defense claims the woman bragged about the sexual encounter afterward. The lawsuit seeks $6 million in damages and involves a man accused of sexual misconduct against multiple women. Three other women who claim they were assaulted by Gooding have been allowed to testify in the trial.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against DJ Paul Oakenfold – 6/5/2023

Former personal assistant, identified only as Jane Doe, has filed a lawsuit accusing DJ and producer Paul Oakenfold of sexual harassment. The lawsuit alleges that Oakenfold and his companies violated Roe’s employment rights. Roe claims Oakenfold touched his genitals and masturbated in front of her on multiple occasions, as well as once in her car. After reporting the incidents, Roe faced retaliation and eventually lost her job. The lawsuit seeks damages over $25,000.

Sexual Harassment and Misconduct at The Guardian – 6/1/2023

Lucy Siegle, a former Guardian journalist, filed a complaint in 2018 stating that The Guardian’s star columnist Nick Cohen groped her in the newsroom in 2001. According to the New York Times, five more women described similar interactions with Cohen between 2008 and 2015. In 2018, another lady claimed he offered to send her obscene photos. The Guardian is facing criticism for its handling of the complaints over a 17-year period, while the publication stated that the incidents were not raised with senior management until 2018 and that Cohen left The Observer due to ill-health in November 2022.

Sexual Misconduct Allegations in the set of America’s Next Top Model – 5/24/2023

Former “America’s Next Top Model” contestants Adrianne Curry and Keenyah Hill have accused the show of sexual misconduct. Curry said she was touched inappropriately during a challenge, while Hill, claimed a male model made unwanted advances and touched her during a photo shoot. The show’s crew immediately intervened in Curry’s case, but Hill expressed disappointment in the handling of her situation. These allegations highlight the issue of sexual misconduct in the modeling industry.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against RuPaul Shangela – 5/4/2023

Shangela, real name Darius Jeremy Pierce, of RuPaul’s Drag Race, has been accused of rape and sexual harassment by former We’re Here production assistant Daniel McGarrigle. McGarrigle filed a lawsuit alleging that Shangela sexually abused him in a hotel room in Louisiana in February 2020. He also claims that Shangela sexually harassed him during the filming of We’re Here. Shangela denied the allegations, and an inquiry conducted by Buckingham Television, the production company behind We’re Here, found insufficient evidence to support up the claims.

Sexual Harassment and Retaliation at Fender Musical Instruments Corp and Cornerstone Staffing Solutions – 4/30/2023

Fender Musical Instruments Corp. and their staffing agency, Cornerstone Staffing Solutions, are being sued by four male temporary workers who claim they were sexually harassed by a female coworker whose behavior was disregarded by both management and human services. The quartet is suing for mental distress caused by a coworker’s sexually inappropriate statements and actions, including unwanted touching, which persisted despite many complaints to management and HR. One of the plaintiffs also alleges retaliation after reporting the harassment. According to the lawsuit, Fender and Cornerstone were aware of, or should have been aware of, the behavior and failed to take appropriate action.

Sexual Harassment at NBCUniversal – 4/23/2023

Jeff Shell, Chief Executive Officer of NBCUniversal, will resign after an internal inquiry determined that he had violated the company’s rules of conduct. CEO Jeff Shell was embroiled in a sexual harassment scandal with CNBC anchor Hadley Gamble. The investigation was initiated after Gamble filed a complaint against Shell, accusing him of sexual harassment.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against F. Murray Abraham – 4/17/2023

F. Murray Abraham’s departure from Mythic Quest last year has reportedly been linked to allegations of sexual misconduct on set. According to recent reports, the 83-year-old Oscar winner was fired after the show’s producers allegedly received two complaints about Abraham’s behavior alleging sexual misconduct on the set. Abraham was “given a warning” and instructed to stay away from the women in the Apple TV+ series when executives learned of the initial complaint regarding his behavior. Abraham was fired from the sitcom when the second incident was raised to the show’s creator and star, Rob McElhenney.

Sexual Harassment at Fox News – 3/11/2023

Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former Fox News host, left the network in 2018 amid sexual misconduct allegations. Guilfoyle was fired after allegations of inappropriate behavior, such as making sexually suggestive comments to coworkers and flaunting pictures of male genitalia. Fox News reportedly paid a settlement to a former assistant who accused Guilfoyle of sexual harassment.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Errol Gluck – 3/16/2023

Former Platinum Poire administrative assistant Sara Boesen is suing Rori Sassoon for allegedly turning a blind eye to her business partner Dr. Errol Gluck’s sexual harassment of Boesen. According to the Manhattan Supreme Court lawsuit, Gluck sexually harassed and inappropriately touched Boesen for nearly two years, forcing her to resign in November 2021. According to Boesen, Sassoon witnessed Gluck’s groping but dismissed it. Sassoon and Platinum Poire deny the allegations and intend to defend themselves against the claims.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Mindy Kaling – 2/15/2023

Actress Mindy Kaling came under fire after sharing a story on the episode of The Mindy Project about how she allegedly tried to flirt with fellow actor Lee Pace. Following his rejection of her advances, Kaling claimed she persisted in her pursuit of him and unexpectedly kissed him in the scene. While some viewers defended Kaling’s actions as innocent flirting, others denounced them as sexual harassment and demanded an apology. Kaling has not addressed the matter in the media.

Race and Pay Discrimination at New York Public Radio – 2/13/2023

Jami Floyd, a former reporter at New York Public Radio (NYPR), has filed a lawsuit against her former employer, citing emotional pain and suffering resulting from alleged discriminatory practices. In her complaint, Floyd claims that she was denied promotions, paid less than non-Black employees and that NYPR violated state and federal employment laws. As a result, Floyd resigned from her position on April 4, 2022. The lawsuit was filed in the United States, and Floyd stated that she was initially “reluctant” to accept a job at NYPR in 2015, despite having worked as a part-time legal analyst and guest host at the station since 2009. She cited her perception that NYPR does not provide adequate support to its Black employees as a reason for her hesitation.

Sexual Harassment Allegations against Justin Roiland – 2/12/2023

Justin Roiland, co-creator of the popular animated TV show “Rick and Morty,” has been officially removed from the Adult Swim production team, as reported recently. Roiland has faced multiple allegations, including a sexual harassment claim during his time working on the series. It was also revealed that Roiland had been charged with felony domestic violence in 2020, which resulted in his termination from Adult Swim. According to a new report, following Roiland’s departure, there have been claims of his negative behavior towards other members of the production staff behind the scenes in the weeks that followed.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Armie Hammer – 2/4/2023

Armie Hammer, known for his roles in movies like “Call Me By Your Name” and “The Social Network,” is currently facing accusations of sexual misconduct. The actor, who has two children with his ex-wife Elizabeth Chambers, namely Harper (eight years old) and Ford (six years old), is under investigation after being accused of raping one woman and coercing others into engaging in aggressive sexual activities. Despite the allegations, Hammer has denied any wrongdoing.

Sexual Harassment Allegation Against Andrew Callaghan – 1/12/2023

Numerous women have accused Andrew Callaghan, a well-known independent filmmaker best known for his Channel 5 YouTube videos and the recent “This Place Rules” documentary, of sexual misconduct. Tim Heidecker, a comedian who co-produced “This Place Rules” with Eric Wareheim, said they have “no plans” to continue working with Callaghan in the future. Callaghan has not yet responded publicly to the allegations. At the start of his “Office Hours” podcast, Heidecker denounced Callaghan’s alleged actions.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Kris Jenner – 1/8/2023

Kris Jenner, the reality TV star and matriarch of the Kardashian family, has been given 13 months to settle a sexual harassment claim brought against her by her former bodyguard, Marc McWilliams. The suit, which was filed in September 2020, accuses Jenner of groping McWilliams and making racist and homophobic remarks during his employment from 2017 to 2019. After the case failed to be settled through private arbitration, a Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, Armen Tamzarian, has granted an extension. McWilliams also claims that he was wrongfully dismissed from his job, and accuses Jenner of making inappropriate comments towards him.

Allegations of Toxic Behavior Against Henry Cavill – 12/27/2022

Henry Cavill will leave his role as The Witcher after Season 3. Speculations about why Cavill is set to be replaced as The Witcher’s lead actor include rumors that the 39-year-old actor did not leave the role voluntarily but was fired due to toxic behavior. According to the source, Cavill has become increasingly radical over the years and has acted like a toxic gamer. They claim that Cavill is not only addicted to video games but has also had disrespectful interactions with female crew members.

Sexual Harassment and Retaliation at ABC Signature – 12/19/2022

ABC Signature has agreed to pay $3 million to settle sexual harassment and retaliation claims brought by the state of California on behalf of a group of crewmembers. In May 2020, the California Civil Rights Department sued Disney, ABC Signature, and others, as well as individuals, alleging violations of the Fair Employment and Housing Act, the Ralph Civil Rights Act, and state law. The department claimed that for 14 seasons of the show, director of photography Gregory St. Johns sexually harassed male crewmembers, and that producers ignored the behavior and fired workers who complained. Disney has not yet responded to a request for comment on the settlement.

Sexual Assault of Harvey Weinstein – 12/19/2022

After a month-long trial and nine days of deliberation, Los Angeles jurors found Harvey Weinstein guilty of rape and sexual assault against only one of the four accusers he was accused of abusing. However, the three guilty counts involving an Italian actor and model known at the trial as Jane Doe 1 dealt a significant blow to the disgraced movie mogul and provided another #MeToo moment of reckoning, five years after he became a magnet for the movement.

Gender Discrimination at the set of Law &Order: SVU – 12/8/2022

According to the Los Angeles Times, David Graziano, who took over as showrunner of “SVU” in June, has been accused of mistreating script coordinator Haley Cameron, prompting her to leave the show. “David Graziano is a sloppy, egotistical, and immature man.” “I’ve been in this industry a long time, and I’ve never experienced such pure, white-male misogyny,” Cameron wrote on a script coordinators’ listserv. Graziano vehemently denies discriminating against, mistreating, or dismissing female writers.

Sexual Harassment of Kyle Dickard – 11/16/2022

Deckhand Kyle Dickard was fired from Below Deck Adventure after making violent threats against deckhand Nathan Morley and sexual advances toward stew Kasie Faddah. Dickard was sentenced to probation after kissing Faddah on a charter guest outing. The guests encouraged him to kiss Faddah, but she later told Captain Kerry Titheradge that it made her very uncomfortable. Titheradge warned Dickard about the importance of remaining professional, which clearly went unheeded. However after recent events, he was eventually fired.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Neighbourhood Drummer Brandon Fried – 11/14/2022

The Neighbourhood has allegedly announced the departure of longtime drummer Brandon Fried, after being accused of sexual harassment by The Maras’ vocalist Mara Zardoya. Zardoya went on social media and told her fans about what allegedly happened between her and Fried in a post. Fried allegedly went on Instagram after The Neighbourhood’s social media statement and apologized to Zardoya and The Neighbourhood for his actions.

Sexual Harassment at WWE – 11/7/2022

Enzo Amore resigned as a WWE promoter after being accused of sexual harassment. Amore is the subject of an ongoing investigation for sexual harassment. Enzo Amore’s tenure in the WWE was brief but noteworthy. He was one of the most memorable people in the company thanks to his catchphrases, delivery, and mannerisms. But because of the circumstances surrounding a sexual harassment investigation, his time was abruptly cut short.

Discrimination and Sexual Harassment at Disney – 11/2/2022

Actor William James of The Lion King filed a lawsuit in New York State Supreme Court against Disney Theatrical Group, Disney Studios Content, and several specific employees after being fired in 2020. He claimed the company had discriminated against him for taking paternity leave and as retaliation for making claims of sexual harassment. After being fired on the first day of his paternity leave, James accused them of breaking state human rights laws that forbid discrimination. Ameena Kaplan, the general manager of the Lion King tour, is accused of sexually harassing James and other male employees for months in 2019. James claims that Ameena Kaplan asked him to meet with her in private after work hours and then suggested that she could limit his ability to play Mufasa in the production.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Late Director Ivan Reitman – 10/19/2022

Anna Faris has revealed the identity of the late film director who reportedly “touched” her “inappropriately” on the set of her film My Super Ex-Girlfriend. Anna talked about her bad relationships with Ivan Reitman. The Scary Movie star recalled her first encounter with Ivan, which left her “mad and humiliated” because she was late to the film’s set owing to a minor incident.
Anna revealed that Ivan reprimanded her in front of the cast and crew on the set of the 2006 film. She also mentioned that Ivan slapped her ass in front of the crew, and all she could do was laugh. Reitman died earlier this year.

Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against Actor Bill Murray – 10/16/2022

One of the stars of the next Marvel Cinematic Universe film Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023) is facing new sexual misconduct and aggressive behavior allegations. According to a Puck report this week, Bill Murray paid a $100,000 settlement to a “far younger” female crew member on the film Being Mortal, whose production was delayed in April due to a complaint filed against Murray for inappropriate behavior.

Harassment Allegations Against Kanye West – 10/11/2022

Kanye West is facing severe backlash following the publication of new video footage in which he appears to force Adidas executives to watch pornography during a business meeting. Adidas announced on October 6 that its multibillion-dollar contract with Kanye is officially under review.

Sexual Harassment at Fresh Off the Boat Set – 9/25/2022

In her new memoir, Making a Scene, Constance Wu claims that she was sexually harassed by a producer on ABC’s series Fresh Off the Boat. Wu claims she went to a sporting event with the producer and he “put his hand on her thigh, his palm eventually touching her crotch.” Wu reportedly accused the unnamed producer of controlling conduct, including “demanding that she pass all her business concerns via him and directing her what to wear.”

Retaliation at Crown Media – 9/9/2022

Mark Steines, the former “Home & Family” co-host who left the Hallmark Channel show, filed a lawsuit against Hallmark parent company, Crown Media. Steines alleges that he was fired after supporting two women who filed sexual-harassment claims against the series’ executive producer at the time, Woody Fraser. According to the lawsuit, two ‘Home & Family’ female producers brought sexual harassment charges against Mr. Fraser and the Defendants. Plaintiff Mark Steines came to the women’s aid by giving information to their attorneys in support of their claims. “Learning that Mr. Steines had spoken with the women and their attorney, Defendants chose to flagrantly violate the law by retaliating against him.” That retaliation, the suit says, included a substantial reduction of Steines’ salary, a cut in his regular voiceover work, a diminished role in network events, and ultimately, Steines’ “abrupt early termination.

Sexual Harassment at BYUTV – 9/8/2022

Kiki Solano, a former producer, and sportscaster, said that sexual harassment caused her to resign from her work at the television station owned by Brigham Young University. In a tweet, Solano lamented that “recent happenings at work” had rendered her position at BYUtv unpleasant. She claimed that she was sexualized and singled out to the point where she regretted going to work. Solano claimed that she repeatedly reported the harassment to human resources. The university’s Title IX office “was made aware of the matter,” she added in the post. Solano said that the HR division had spoken to the station managers but that nothing had been done. BYUtv has made no official statement, and no one is accessible to comment.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Charlie Walk – 9/6/2022

Fox has fired “The Four” presenter Charlie Walk after a former coworker accused him of sexual harassment. Walk, the president of Republic Records Group (who, according to several media accounts, has been placed on leave by the firm), will not participate in the live finale. The decision comes after a woman accused Walk of sexual misconduct while the two worked together at Columbia Records around eight years ago.

Sexual Harassment Complaints Against Vic Mignogna – 8/31/2022

Vic Mignogna is a voice actor from the United States who specializes in English dubs of Japanese anime. His career began in the early 2000s. Mignogna, unfortunately, is now mostly known as a serial sexual harasser. Those accusations started surfacing in 2019, with some allegations dating back nearly a decade before he became a successful voice actor. Following these allegations, Funimation and Rooster Teeth both cut ties with Mignogna.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Fox News – 8/21/2022

A sexual harassment lawsuit filed against Fox News by former contributor Julie Roginsky has been resolved for an unknown sum of money. Roginsky said in her lawsuit that former network head Roger Ailes prevented her from working on “The Five” because she refused to have a sexual connection with him. According to the lawsuit, Ailes “unlawfully harassed, discriminated, retaliated against Roginsky, and ruined her career.”

Sexual Offenses of Actor Gary Busey – 8/21/2022

After making an appearance as a guest at a conference for horror movies and memorabilia earlier this month, actor Gary Busey was charged with sexual offenses. Busey was charged with two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact, one case of attempted criminal sexual contact, and one crime of harassment, Cherry Hill police announced in a statement on Saturday.

Sexual Harassment at the set of The Ellen DeGeneres Show – 8/20/2022

In a BuzzFeed News report, three executive producers of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” were accused of sexual misconduct by former workers. Several former employees of Ellen DeGeneres’ daytime talk show, who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation, described incidences of harassment and sexual misconduct they claim to have encountered with executive producers Ed Glavin, Jonathan Norman, and co-executive producer Kevin Leman.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Casey Affleck – 8/12/2022

In an interview with The Boston Globe, Casey Affleck said he is “very proud” of his contentious Best Actor Oscar win for his performance in Manchester by the Sea and addressed the sexual harassment allegations that followed him all awards season. A lawsuit was brought against Affleck in 2010 by two women, who made accusations that the actor refuted. The dispute was ultimately resolved outside of court. The Globe was informed by Affleck that it is against the law for either party to discuss the lawsuit.

Sexual Harassment Allegations against actor Randall Emmett – 7/30/2022

On Thursday, June 30, 2022, the Los Angeles Times published a more than 10,000-word piece charging the “Vanderpump Rules” actor Randall Emmett with a range of offenses, including adultery, sexual harassment, unethical working behavior, and many others. Many women have accused Emmett of “digitally entering” and “masturbating” naked women in his office who he later placed in his films, as well as of soliciting “massages and oral sex.” He is even said to have paid a woman $200,000 to be silent.

Sexual Harassment Allegations at the Fox Nation – 7/23/2022

The first report on Britt McHenry’s complaints stated, “Tyrus had sent McHenry unwanted and unsolicited text messages with lewd, sexual comments on numerous occasions.” TheWrap received confirmation from a source with knowledge of the investigation that McHenry’s complaints involved sexual harassment. The sexual harassment claims made by Fox Nation host Britt McHenry against her former “Un-PC” co-host Tyrus have reportedly been “independently investigated,” and Fox News now considers “the matter resolved.”

Sexual Harassment Allegations against Ricky Martin – 7/21/2022

Ricky Martin prevailed in a case against his 21-year-old nephew, who withdrew his prior allegations of sexual and romantic relationship and harassment. According to reports, Martin and his nephew had a seven-month sexual relationship. After it ended, the singer started stalking and harassing him. Martin vehemently refuted the allegations, claiming they never had a sexual relationship.

Sexual Harassment Allegations towards Kris Jenner – 7/21/2022

In 2020, Kris Jenner was accused of sexual harassment by her former bodyguard Marc McWilliams. Before being suspended in 2018, he had worked for her since 2017. Kourtney Kardashian hired him in 2019 after he came forward with his accusations. In his lawsuit, McWilliams claimed that Jenner had harassed him by making “overt sexual” comments about his appearance and repeatedly suggesting that they “engage in a romantic and sexual relationship.” He also claimed that Jenner had made “sexual advances and other harassing misconduct” toward him.

Sexism and Racial Discrimination at Warner Bros – 7/13/2022

During her interview with BuzzFeed News, a former Friends writers’ assistant discussed the consequences of her well-known lawsuit from two decades ago. In the interview with Amaani Lyle, she claimed that she initially wanted to expose the sexual harassment and discrimination she had encountered while working for Warner Bros. After consulting her attorney, Lyle added a claim for sexual harassment to her initial lawsuits for racial discrimination and wrongful termination. However, Lyle claimed that after reporting the problem, she was dismissed and even subjected to retaliation.

Gender and Pay Discrimination at Fox News – 6/19/2022

According to documents investigated by The Washington Post, Fox News reached a settlement with Melissa Francis, a former host who complained about gender-based pay disparities at the cable news network, for about $15 million. Francis and her lawyer opted not to speak about the settlement, which was not previously publicized. Francis also complained about Fox retaliating against her after she brought up pay disparities at the network with the New York State Department of Labor. According to her attorney Kevin Mintzer, she filed the current complaint with the state “not for herself but for the women of the company who are left behind.

Allegations of Sexual Misconduct of Ken Stringfellow – 6/8/2022

Ken Stringfellow, a co-founder of the Posies, a well-known indie rock band from the Northwest in the 1990s, took to social media this week to address allegations of sexual misconduct he was subjected to the previous year. Stringfellow has taken a break from touring and being in the public eye after several women accused the singer and songwriter of sexual misconduct. He had initially denied the claims.His statement includes an apology, an admission that he’s seeing a therapist and that he’s still taking time away from the public eye.

Sexual Misconduct Allegations towards Gavin Dance Lead Singer Tilian Pearson – 6/3/2022

Dance Tilian Pearson, the lead singer of Gavin Dance, has announced that she will “step away” from the group as a result of numerous online allegations of sexual misconduct. The post-hardcore veterans announced on Twitter that they would still be releasing their upcoming album, Jackpot Juicer, despite Pearson taking an indefinite break from the band.

Sexual Harassment Allegations towards Actor Noel Clarke – 5/29/2022

In April 2021 the Guardian published allegations of misconduct from 20 women who knew Noel Clarke in a professional capacity. According to the newspaper, Clarke’s accusers alleged that they had experienced sexual harassment, unwanted touching or groping, sexually inappropriate behavior and comments, professional misconduct, and the taking and sharing of pornographic photos and videos without permission. In a statement at the time, Clarke stated that he “vehemently” denied “any sexual misconduct or criminal wrongdoing.”

Sexual Harassment of Kevin Spacey – 5/29/2022

American actor Kevin Spacey has been accused of sexually assaulting three men in the UK. According to Rosemary Ainsley, head of the special crime unit of the Crown Prosecution Service, the decision was made following a “review of evidence obtained” by London police. Authorities also accepted criminal charges for “sexually assaulting three men four times” against Spacey. Following allegations of sexual harassment, Spacey, who received an Oscar for his role in “American Beauty,” was fired from the “House of Cards” series. The actor came out as gay for the first time when the cases were revealed, but he was expelled by fate and vanished from the media.

Sexual Harassment Case of Actor James Franco – 5/18/2022

In a lawsuit filed in October 2019, former students Toni Gaal and Sarah Tither-Kaplan claimed that James Franco and his partners at the Rabbit Bandini Studio 4 school had promised to advance the careers of women in exchange for their participation in “overt sexual acts, nudity, and performing in sex scenes—often in an orgy type setting.” The lawsuit proposed a class of victims for both “fraud” and “sexual exploitation,” as well as claims of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, false advertising, fraud, and breach of contract. In a preliminary agreement last year, Franco and the defendants agreed to pay $894,000 to resolve the individual claims of Tither-Kaplan and Gaal and $1.34 million to a class fund. Judge Cunningham approved the settlement.

Sexual Harassment Allegations towards Director Joji Fukunaga – 5/9/2022

In addition to directing the first season of HBO’s True Detective and Netflix’s Maniac, No Time to Die director Cary Joji Fukunaga has been accused of sexual harassment, including allegedly “grooming” young women. Actress Rachelle Vinberg made the initial accusations after feeling compelled to speak out about her interactions with Fukunaga. A request for comment from Fukunaga’s representatives has gone unanswered.

Allegations of Inappropriate Behavior of Actor Fred Savage – 5/9/2022

Following allegations of inappropriate behavior, Fred Savage was fired from the ABC revival of the beloved 1980s sitcom The Wonder Years, in which he starred as Kevin Arnold. The alleged actions of Savage included inappropriate behavior and verbal outbursts. Previous harassment claims against the former child star included one made in 2018 that he yelled at and hit a female crew member during a costume fitting on the set of Fox’s The Grinder, which ran from 2015 to 2016. Fox looked into the incident and “found no evidence of any wrongdoing.”

Sexual Harassment Allegations of Frank Langella – 4/13/2022

Frank Langella, a Tony Award-winning stage actor, faces allegations of inappropriate behavior during the production of Netflix’s limited series “The Fall of the House of Usher.” The 84-year-old star is being investigated for allegedly sexually harassing a female co-star. Netflix declined to comment, stating, “We do not comment on ongoing employment situations.”

Sexual Harassment at the set of Hightown – 3/17/2022

A female employee filed a lawsuit against Apple Inc., Jerry Bruckheimer Inc., Lionsgate Entertainment, and the Center for Toxicology & Environmental Health, alleging that the companies did not protect her from sexual harassment by her supervisors. Alicia Kelly’s 81-page complaint accused the production companies of their failure to intervene with or prevent her harassment while she worked on location. She claimed the production companies were liable for negligent supervision, that her direct employers violated Title VII and the Equal Pay Act, and that CTEH effectively forced her out in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The companies involved declined to comment.

Gender Discrimination and Retaliation at Fox News – 02/17/2022

Melissa Francis’ gender discrimination and retaliation accusations have been investigated by the New York State Department of Labor. Francis left the Fox News due to a wage dispute. Fox News representative declined to comment on the investigation. New York’s labor department is investigating Fox News. The news comes only months after the network reached a settlement with the New York City Human Rights Commission.

Sexual Harassment of actress Linda Lavin – 01/27/2022

Linda Lavin, the now 84-year-old actress who played Lina Küchler Silberman in “Lena: My 100 Children”, finally spoke up that she was once a victim of sexual harassment while filming the 1987 TV movie. Lavin shares that she was sexually harassed on the television movie set by a very strong man on the production team. After voicing out her concerns to a female crew member, she was turned down in fear of “losing their jobs”.

Sexual Harassment of Hollywood Actress Goldie Hawn – 01/22/2022

Goldie Hawn, an Overboard Hollywood actress, revealed on The Megyn Kelly Show that she was sexually harassed by popular cartoonist Al Capp. According to Hawn, Al Capp asked for the actress to do scandalous things like to look like an imbecile, lifting her skirt, for a kiss, and eventually exposed himself to Hawn. Hawn was left jobless and was even thrown $20 by Capp when she turned him down on his advances.

Sexual Misconduct at Idyllwild Arts Academy – 1/6/2022

A former student of the Idyllwild Arts Academy has filed a lawsuit against the school and actor Keith Lewis alleging misconduct. The plaintiff, now 19, alleges that Lewis, 59, engaged in a pattern of misconduct and when she came forward, the school dismissed her allegations and removed her from a project.

Misogyny, Bullying, and Harassment at Victorias Secret – 12/25/2021

Bella Hadid is back with Victoria’s Secret. The model previously denounced the brand after previous top executive Ed Razek was accused of sexual harassment. Razek was reportedly in the room when Bella was being measured before the company’s annual fashion show in 2018. Razek stepped down from the company in wake of allegations of sexual harassment.

Sexual Harassment in CBS – 12/16/2021

Eliza Dushku paid $9.5 million to settle sexual harassment claims on the set of Bull that concerned Weatherly in 2018. She said she found out she signed away her rights to a public forum before taking a job.Eliza Dushku testified before a congressional committee about being harassed by Michael Weatherly and then, after she complained, being let go from the series and forced into arbitration. Dushku was responding to a subpoena.

Sexual Harassment and Gender Discrimination at King Studio LLC – 12/14/2021

YouTuber and TikTok star Zach King is being sued by a former producer who is accusing him of sexual harassment, wrongful termination, gender discrimination, among several other counts, according to a civil complaint filed by Elisabeth Logan in Los Angeles County’s Court. Logan claims that King created “an abusive work atmosphere” by stripping naked in her office and paying her less than male colleagues. A court summons states that King, his company, and even TikTok have 30 days to respond to accusations made by Logan. However, King has not publicly addressed the lawsuit.

Sexual Harassment of Rebel Wilson – 12/09/2021

Rebel Wilson, known for starring in The Hustle, Bridesmaids, and Pitch Perfect, shares about sexual harassment during a BBC interview. Wilson recalls two instances of sexual harassment that happened in her career. One happened while in a hotel room with her director and the other on a film set with one of her male co-stars and his friends. She decided to stay working on the project since she “didn’t quite know what to do and I was in a foreign country.” The incident happened before the rise of the ‘Me Too’ movement so it took a while for her to find the courage to share her story.

Sexual Harassment and Racism at The Dickens Fair – 12/07/2021

The Dickens Fair is facing backlash and a boycott after allegations of sexual harassment and a history of racism. Former member of the singing group, Gin Alley Sallys, Jennifer Damico alleges inappropriate touching, groping, and harassment by members. The organizers of the annual event say recent allegations are simply not true.

Sexual Harassment Allegations of Kevin Spacey – 11/23/2021

Actor Kevin Spacey was written out of Netflix’s hit show House of Cards after several show sources alleged that he created a “toxic” work environment, and touched male staffers without their consent. MRC, the studio behind “House of Cards”, sued Spacey for damages. The mediator ruled that Spacey must pay $31 million in damages.

Harassment of Singer Zayne Malik – 10/30/2021

Zayne Malik pleaded no contest to harassment charges and was hit with five citations for lewd, lascivious, threatening, or obscene words as well as for physically harming Yolanda Hadid, the mother of his model partner Gigi Hadid.

Sexual Harrasment at WTMX – 10/22/2021

Eric Ferguson, a known radio host who was accused of groping a WTMX employee at their Christmas party, is also being sued by another former employee who claims he coerced her into performing sexual favors. Ferguson’s lawyers have filed to have the lawsuit dismissed.

Sexual Misconduct of Travis Wall – 10/24/2021

Emmy Award-winning choreographer Travis Wall, who rose to fame through the dance competition “So You Think You Can Dance”, faces complaints of sexually improper behavior, causing his removal from this year’s tour for Break the Floor (BTF) Competition. Following the investigation report, BFT hires a third-party investigator to look into the allegations leveled against Wall. According to the Star, Wall said (through his publicist) that “the charges against me are false.” However, neither Wall nor BTF have responded to requests for comments.

Sexual Harassment and Retaliation at ABC News – 9/20/2021

In an amended lawsuit by “Good Morning America” producer Kirstyn Crawford, Former ABC News president Ben Sherwood was accused of “creepy,” “sexually harassing” behavior toward women during his time running the company. The suit further discusses that due to Crawford speaking out about the alleged behavior, the network retaliated and denied her a contract extension. The network has denied the claims on retaliation.

Former Security Guard Sexual Harassment Case Against Kris Jenner – 9/18/2021

Kris Jenner is being sued for $3M by her former security guard, Marc McWilliams after the former employee reveals sexual harassment incidents while working for the Kardashian/Jenner family in 2017. After complaining to his bosses about the harassment incidents, McWilliams was instead fired, making him believe that his termination was a conspiracy between his company and Kris. Kris Jenner is denying all allegations and has worked out a deal to take the case to private court and off the public eye.

Harassment of Rose McGowan- 09/19/2022

Actor and activist Rose McGowan shares about the Harvey Weinstein scandal and the subsequent harassment she endured before exposing the disgraced movie producer. According to McGowan, Weinstein tried to silence her by using tactics including sketchy spy drones and burglary. Rose McGowan eventually sued Weinstein, alleging that he and his conspirators used spies posing as women’s rights advocates and journalists to obtain a copy of her memoir, illegally recorded her conversations, and smeared her to those in the entertainment industry who were working on projects with her.

Bossie’s Harassing Behavior Towards Lil Nas X – 9/4/2021

Lil Nas X, an openly queer musician, has become controversial for expressing his queerness via his art. This report details how rapper Bossie Badazz, has repeatedly attacked Lil Nas X to the point of harassment by attacking the young musician’s homosexuality.

Harassment by Anthony Morina – 8/21/2021

In a lawsuit filed against Sony Pictures and CBS Studios, actress Briana Thomas claimed that executive producer Anthony Morina sexually harassed her and the companies failed to prevent it. Thomas is seeking compensation for damages and recompense for “unpaid wages, premium pay, and statutory penalties.”

Sexual Harassment and Discrimination by Mike Richards – 8/6/2021

In the past, ‘Jeopardy!’ executive producer Mike Richards was involved in sexual harassment and discrimination lawsuits filed by two former models at ‘The Price is Right.’ As a frontrunner in the consideration of a show’s new host, Richards is under fire for his past actions.

Sexual Misconduct by Gabe Erales – 7/24/2021

Top Chef winner, Gabe Erales, was revealed to have violated the ethics policy on harassment at Comedor, an Austin-based restaurant where he used to work as a head chef. Erales has issued an apology and stated that he is trying to reflect upon his actions and be better in the future.

Misconduct, Racism, and Misogyny within CBS’ Stations Group – 7/22/2021

Misconduct, racism, and misogyny allegedly reigned at a handful of CBS-owned stations, according to a Los Angeles Times investigation. After this report, CBS fired two senior managers in its Los Angeles and Chicago stations. CBS did not reveal the reasons behind the managers’ departures but it signified a dramatic management makeover in the network’s stations.

Racism and Sexual Harassment on the set of “The Doctors” – 7/20/2021

Dr. Ian Smith, former host of the medical talk show “The Doctors,” has filed a lawsuit against distributor ViacomCBS, production company Stage 29 Productions, firm head, and the show’s executive producer. Dr. Smith alleges that he was sexually harassed by the executive producer and that African-American hosts were subjected to discrimination.

Sexual Misconduct by John Crist – 7/16/2021

In 2019, John Crist was accused of sexually harassing several women — an allegation that he later admitted. After undergoing therapy for his addiction issues, Crist shared that the revelation of his misconduct helped him lead a better life today.

Discrimination at Netflix – 7/14/2021

Netflix is facing a lawsuit alleging gender and race discrimination in the workplace. The suit has been filed by a former director in the streamer’s business and legal affairs department, claiming that she and several other women of Indian origin were subjected to systemic discrimination. Netflix has released a statement firmly denying the allegations.

Alleged Sexual Harassment by Diplo – 7/11/2021

A woman has come forward and filed a lawsuit against Diplo alleging that he intimidated a her into performing oral sex on him in a private room and recorded the encounter without her consent. Diplo’s attorney is strongly denying the allegations and called the complaint “completely outrageous.”

Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Kris Jenner – 7/3/2021

Marc McWilliams, Kris Jenner’s security guard, has accused Jenner of groping him and making racist and homophobic remarks while he was working for her. He has now officially informed the court that he will be pushing through with a lawsuit against the “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” star. Kris is now required to respond to the claims in court.

Sex Misconduct Suit Against James Franco – 7/1/2021

In October 2019, actresses and ex-students at Studio 4 filed a lawsuit against James Franco alleging that he intimidated students and forced them to perform unreasonable explicit sex scenes in an “orgy type setting.” Recently, Franco and his co-defendants settled the lawsuit by agreeing to pay $2.2 million. 

Sexual Harassment at Fox News – 6/29/2021 

Due to a series of cases involving high-profile personnel at Fox News, New York City’s Commission on Human Rights conducted an investigation into the news network’s culture. The reports allege a culture of sexual harassment and retaliation at the network. Fox News is set to pay $1 million in settlement of this investigation.

A ‘Project Runway’ Star is Accused of Bullying and Sexual Harassment – 6/17/2021

After Michael Costello called out Chrissy Teigen for bullying him, Leona Lewis took to Instagram to share how she also experienced being bullied by Costello himself. The Project Runway star apologized to Lewis but claimed that he was “completely blindsided” by the singer’s claims. Meanwhile, make-up artist Jordan Liberty has made separate allegations against Costello stating that he was sexually harassed by him. Costello responded and claimed that the cancer survivor is on a clout chase.

Sexual Harassment During the Michael Jackson Tour – 6/14/2021

In a recent interview, Sheryl Crow revealed that she experienced sexual harassment in the hands of Frank DiLeo, Michael Jackson’s manager. Crow shared her story of having to endure career threats from DiLeo to force her into doing sexual favors for him during Jackson’s 1987 Bad world tour. The interview also brought to light Crow’s encounters with sexism throughout her career.

Sexual Harassment at Metro FM – 6/14/2021

Pearl Modiade, a radio and TV personality, has publicly shared her experiences of sexual harassment in her former workplace, Metro FM. According to Modiade, her complaints of being sexually harassed in meetings, at work events, through work emails, and on social media, fell on deaf ears. Management did nothing to stop the misconduct and even added to it.

Sexual Racketeering Charges Against R. Kelly – 6/6/2021

Jailed singer R. Kelly will be facing sexual racketeering charges in August 2021. The charges include bribery, sexual exploitation of a child, kidnapping, transportation of minors, violation of the Mann Act, engaging in illegal sexual activity, illegal coercion, and enticement of individuals, and forced labor. To prepare for the trial, his lawyers sent a list of personal questions to the potential jurors.

Sexual Harassment, Racial Insensitivity, & Bullying on the set of The Ellen DeGeneres Show – 5/26/2021

After a BuzzFeed News investigation exposed the toxic work culture at the set of The Ellen DeGeneres show, NBC has announced that the Kelly Clarkson show would replace the daytime’s most popular slot that the Ellen show vacated. According to interviews with 36 former employees, the show’s “be kind” motto masks the detailed patterns of sexual harassment, racial insensitivity, and bullying within the work culture of the Ellen set.

Sexual Harassment and Bullying at ICM – 5/5/2021

In this L.A. Times report, former and current employees reveal sexual harassment incidents they have experienced at ICM, one of the four major talent agencies in the entertainment industry. Behind the company’s effort to strike a balance between men and women in positions, many have come forward to expose that it is, in fact, tolerating a disrespectful culture in the workplace.