Amid fallout over Gabrielle Union’s firing from America’s Got Talent; NBC, Simon Cowell’s company Syco Entertainment and production company Fremantle announced Sunday they plan to address her concerns.
“We remain committed to ensuring a respectful workplace for all employees and take very seriously any questions about workplace culture,” the three parties said in a joint statement. “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.”
Shortly after the statement was released to the media, Union retweeted culture writer Joelle Monique, who said a “solid apology” comes in three parts — admitting wrong, correcting the mistake and outlining a plan for the future. The journalist added, “Anything less is covering your own ass.”
This! This! AND THIIISSSSSSS!!!!!! https://t.co/RCrtKtkQ4L
— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) December 1, 2019
On November 23, news broke that Union and fellow AGT judge Julianne Hough would not be returning to the NBC competition series after season 14. The two joined the judging panel earlier this year, following a shakeup that saw Melanie Brown and Heidi Klum exit the series.
Website LoveBScott first reported details of Union’s firing, saying she was terminated for speaking up about “problematic situations” at the show, including racism and sexism. The website placed blame on producer and fellow judge Simon Cowell, and said AGT replaces “women and blacks at Simon’s whim.”
Related Story: Hollywood Stars Support Gabrielle Union After ‘America’s Got Talent’ Exit
Hough, who is set to star in the NBC Christmas special Holidays with the Houghs, denied having a negative experience at the show.
“I had a wonderful time on America’s Got Talent, I loved working with the cast, crew, and producers. I am happy to continue my working relationship with NBC,” the actress and dancer said in a statement last week.
