Contributed by Rebecca Johnson
Late November, NBC announced their decision to not to bring Gabrielle Union back as a judge for America’s Got Talent. Sources said that she was let go after speaking up against discrimination on the job. Producers from NBC and AGT have finally released a statement responding to the backlash they received.
“We remain committed to ensuring a respectful workplace for all employees and take very seriously any questions about workplace culture,” says the statement according to Deadline. “We are working with Ms. Union through her representatives to hear more about her concerns, following which we will take whatever next steps may be appropriate.”
Waves of support from other celebrities and fans poured out on social media criticizing NBC’s decision.
I’m with @itsgabrielleu. @NBCUniversal: Discrimination, harassment & retaliation have no place on #AmericasGotTalent or any workplace. I’m joining @TIMESUPNOW in calling on NBC’s leadership to take concrete and long-term action to fix its toxic culture.https://t.co/IBSQMBTHi8
— shonda rhimes (@shondarhimes) December 2, 2019
More tears. #BlackHairChallenege ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ all these posts give me so much life & specifically more courage. Thank you guys!! https://t.co/DINjhKlYvu
— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) November 30, 2019
SAG-AFTRA, a union that represents entertainers, also released a statement that they are investigating the situation as well.
“We immediately reached out to Ms. Union’s representatives when these reports came to light. It is our practice to work closely with members who reach out to us and their representatives in instances like this, as that usually affords the best protection and best resolution for the affected member,” they said according to Page Six.
So far, they have nothing to report of the investigation.
