Ryan Seacrest is the latest famous name to face allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the ubiquitous TV and radio personality has been accused of acting inappropriately with a former stylist.
This same publication reports that the the alleged victim made a substantial financial request of Seacrest in exchange for her silence.
The American Idol emcee and Kelly Ripa co-host refused said request.
The unnamed woman worked as a wardrobe stylist for E! and says the incident took place about 10 years ago.
No details about her claims against Seacrest have been made public.
A spokesperson for E!, however, has confirmed that the cable network is conducting an investigation into the matter.
And Seacrest has released a lengthy statement in his own defense.
It reads as follows:
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.
If I made her feel anything but respected, I am truly sorry.
I dispute these reckless allegations and I plan to cooperate with any corporate inquiries that may result.
I treat all my colleagues with kindness, dignity, and understanding, as this is a principle that’s core to who I am.
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.
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.
Seacrest, of course, is a very busy and successful producer and host.
He currently sits each morning opposite Ripa on Live With Kelly and Ryan” weekday mornings on ABC; is scheduled to serve as host of that network’s upcoming revival of American Idol next spring.
This news comes amid a wave of sexual harassment and assault allegations that have rocked Hollywood over the pastfew weeks, starting with back-to-back bombshell reports in The New York Times and The New Yorker that detailed allegations of sexual assault by Harvey Weinstein.
Since then, accusations of misconduct have been leveled against such significant stars as Kevin Spacey, Lous C.K. and Jeffrey Tambor, just to name a few.
We’ll update this story with more details as news breaks.
