Many were skeptical of the sexual harassment allegations that were levied against Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President John Bailey on March 13. That skepticism was clearly warranted after the organization cleared Bailey Tuesday night.
The Academy’s Membership and Administration Committee took one statement and their investigation concluded it was without merit. In a statement, the Academy noted, “The Committee unanimously determined that no further action was merited on this matter. The findings and recommendations of the committee were reported to the Board which endorsed its recommendation. John Bailey remains President of the Academy.”
The statement also concluded, “The Academy took the claim very seriously and was aware of the rights of both the claimant and the accused, including consulting with outside counsel with expertise in matters related to harassment.”
There had been reports that three allegations had been made against Bailey, but the Academy pointedly clarified there was only one that they took into consideration.
Bailey sent a letter to AMPAS staff on Saturday noting that “I am alleged to have attempted to touch a woman inappropriately while we were both riding in a transport van on a movie set” and “That did not happen.”
The 75-year-old cinematographer became the president of the Academy last January replacing Cheryl Boone Isaacs.