Jeffrey Tambor accused by Transparent actress of sexual misconduct
The depressing and terrible news continues when it comes to accusations of sexual misconduct towards people in the entertainment industry.
Today, there is unfortunately another name added to the list of people speaking out against Emmy winner and Transparent star Jeffrey Tambor. According to a new report from Deadline, Trace Lysette, an actress aboard the Amazon series, is accusing Tambor of making sexually suggestive remarks and inappropriate behavior around her on set. She also reportedly claims that he “physically pressed up against [her] in a sexually aggressive manner during a break in filming.” These claims follow up some made by a former assistant in Van Barnes.
In a statement, Tambor denied allegations of wrongdoing, admitting to personality flaws, but denying any harassment or misconduct:
“For the past four years, I’ve had the huge privilege — and huge responsibility – of playing Maura Pfefferman, a transgender woman, in a show that I know has had an enormous, positive impact on a community that has been too long dismissed and misunderstood … Now I find myself accused of behavior that any civilized person would condemn unreservedly.
“I know I haven’t always been the easiest person to work with. 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. I am deeply sorry if any action of mine was ever misinterpreted by anyone as being sexually aggressive or if I ever offended or hurt anyone. But the fact is, for all my flaws, I am not a predator and the idea that someone might see me in that way is more distressing than I can express.”
The accusations in this situation are made all the more troublesome by the notion of Transparent being such a positive, powerful show celebrating inclusiveness and acceptance.
Prior to Lysette making her accusation Amazon had opened an investigation into Tambor (also known for his role on Arrested Development); they have since said that these accusations will be looked into further.
While all of these accusations are devastating to hear, this is a necessary part of the world we are in right now with victims getting an opportunity to find their power and lend their voice to the discussions that need to be had. No allegation should be swept under the rug, and more should be empowered to come forward. It’s the only way to get us to the other side.
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