'I dispute these reckless allegations and I plan to cooperate with any corporate inquiries that may result,' the 'American Idol' host stated in a statement.
- Nov 18, 2017
AceShowbiz - Amid the mounting sexual harassment allegations against a slew of famous figures in Hollywood, Ryan Seacrest is the latest celebrity to be accused of sexual misconduct. The EP of E!'s "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" allegedly behaved "inappropriately" toward a stylist who worked for him nearly a decade ago at E! News, prompting the network to conduct an internal investigation into the alleged incident.
A source close to the situation revealed to Deadline that the accuser, whose name is not specified, demanded a "substantial amount of money to keep quiet." Ryan reportedly refused and decided to come forward to refute the allegations before the accusation went public.
"Recently, someone that worked as a wardrobe stylist for me nearly a decade ago at E! News, came forward with a complaint suggesting I behaved inappropriately toward her," the "Live with Kelly and Ryan" co-host said in a statement on Friday, November 17. "If I made her feel anything but respected, I am truly sorry."
The "American Idol" host continued, "I dispute these reckless allegations and I plan to cooperate with any corporate inquiries that may result," adding that he treats "all my colleagues with kindness, dignity, and understanding, as this is a principle that's core to who I am." He went on saying, "Throughout my 25 years in the entertainment industry, the majority of my co-workers have been women, and I've endeavored to foster a positive work environment of mutual respect and courtesy, as that's how I believe it should be."
Ryan concluded, "I'm distraught that anyone or any situation would call that into question. I'm proud of my workplace reputation, and believe my track record will speak for itself. I'm an advocate for women. I will continue to support their voices."
