Netflix and Media Rights Capital are currently trying to figure out a way forward with “House Of Cards,” without including Kevin Spacey, who is facing serious allegations of sexual harassment and assault. Meanwhile, Louis C.K. has seen the entire industry take a strong step back after he admitted to sexually harassing women in light of allegations published in the New York Times. Now, another television figure out also been facing serious repercussions for his behavior.
Last week, “Transparent” star Jeffrey Tambor‘s former assistant Van Barnes accused him of making lewd comments, groping her and threatening to sue her if she spoke up. The actor strongly denied those claims, releasing the following statement to Deadline:
I am aware that a former disgruntled assistant of mine has made a private post implying that I had acted in an improper manner toward her. I adamantly and vehemently reject and deny any and all implication and allegation that I have ever engaged in any improper behavior toward this person or any other person I have ever worked with. I am appalled and distressed by this baseless allegation.
Nevertheless, the accusation has prompted an investigation at Amazon. There’s no word when there might be an outcome, but according to the trade, the writers of “Transparent” are already considering a fifth season without Tambor’s celebrated character, Maura Pfefferman. It would require a major narrative shift — she’s the lead character on the show — but with Hollywood now awake to the serious issue that has plagued this industry for decades, all options are being looked when talent involved with programming are facing career altering accusations.
It doesn’t appear any hard decisions have been made, but it’s another high profile show facing an uncertain future.