Last fall, “Transparent” star Jeffrey Tambor‘s former assistant Van Barnes accused him of making lewd comments, groping her and threatening to sue if she spoke up about his behavior. A few days later, semi-regular series star Trace Lysette alleged that Tambor made lewd, sexual and unwelcome remarks while they worked together, in addition to becoming “physical.” At the time, Tambor denied the allegations and made indications that he was prepared to leave Amazon‘s acclaimed program.
“I’ve already made clear my deep regret if any action of mine was ever misinterpreted by anyone as being aggressive, but the idea that I would deliberately harass anyone is simply and utterly untrue,” Tambor said. “Given the politicized atmosphere that seems to have afflicted our set, I don’t see how I can return to ‘Transparent.’”
“I know I haven’t always been the easiest person to work with,” he added. “I can be volatile and ill-tempered, and too often I express my opinions harshly and without tact. But I have never been a predator – ever.”
This week, Tambor’s exit became official with Amazon announcing they have fired him from “Transparent,” and noting that the actor will not be appearing in the upcoming fifth season. No clear details were given regarding the investigation against Tambor, but Amazon did say what they learned of his actions “could not be justified or excused under scrutiny.”
Tambor has shared his reaction to being let go from “Transparent,” criticizing the process, and apologizing to anyone who might’ve misunderstood his behavior. Here’s what he had to say via Deadline:
I am profoundly disappointed in Amazon’s handling of these false accusations against me. I am even more disappointed in Jill Soloway’s unfair characterization of me as someone who would ever cause harm to any of my fellow cast mates.
In our four-year history of working together on this incredible show, these accusations have NEVER been revealed or discussed directly with me or anyone at Amazon. Therefore, I can only surmise that the investigation against me was deeply flawed and biased toward the toxic politicized atmosphere that afflicted our set. As I have consistently stated, I deeply regret if any action of mine was ever misinterpreted by anyone and I will continue to vehemently defend myself. I also deeply regret that this ground-breaking show, which changed so many lives, is now in jeopardy. That, to me, is the biggest heartbreak.
There’s no word yet if the fifth season of “Transparent” will also be the last. It’s also unclear if Netflix, where Tambor stars in “Arrested Development,” will continue their relationship with the actor or launch their own investigation.