NBC is speaking out about the ongoing investigation regardingGabrielle Union‘s controversial firing fromAmerica’s Got Talent.
On Saturday, during the network’s Television Critics Association press tour, president of NBC Entertainment Paul Telegdy shared that the show is “in the middle of an investigation,” calling it “really serious.”
Trae Patton/NBC
Telegdy explained that as the investigation continues, “we certainly take anyone’s critique who comes to work here incredibly seriously,” adding, “if we learn something, we’ll certainly put new practices in place, if necessary.”
Despite the reports ofAGT‘s mistreatment, Telegdy maintains the reality competition show as “magnificent” and “a place where you see lives changed forever.”
The report also claimed both Union and Hough said they were subjected to “excessive notes” on their physical appearance, sources alleged inVariety‘s report. In one instance, Union reportedly said she was told her ever-changing hairstyles were “too black” forAGT‘s audience, while Hough reportedly said she received constant criticism on her hair, makeup and wardrobe.
Hough previously denied she had a negative experience on the show and said she was “happy to continue my working relationship with NBC.” Hough later spoke out in support of Union.
In a joint statement, Syco Entertainment, Fremantle and NBC said, “We remain committed to ensuring a respectful workplace for all employees and take very seriously any questions about workplace culture. 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.”
Frazer Harrison/Getty Images; Tibrina Hobson/WireImage
Union also tweeted about the talk, writing, “We had a lengthy 5-hour, and what I thought to be,productive meetingyesterday. I was able to again, express my unfiltered truth. I led with transparency and my desire and hope for real change.”
Cowell has reportedly enlisted longtime Hollywood litigator Larry Stein as his legal representation. (Union is working with Megyn Kelly’s former attorney Bryan Freedman.)
“The initial conversation was candid and productive,” an NBC spokesperson said in a statement to PEOPLE about their sit-down with Union. “While there will be afurther investigationto get a deeper understanding of the facts, we are working with Gabrielle to come to a positive resolution.”
source: people.com
