The latest development in the ongoing controversy surrounding NBCUniversal’s reality television series involves a group of reality stars and crew members who claim to have experienced or witnessed “grotesque and depraved” mistreatment on the shows. These individuals are now demanding to be released from their nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) in order to expose the extent of the alleged misconduct.
Attorneys representing the cast and crew, who are still unnamed, from various series on Bravo, E!, and CNBC have been conducting an investigation into the allegations. They have already discovered serious issues but believe that the full scope of the claims cannot be determined until individuals are released from their NDAs.
In a letter to NBCU’s general counsel, attorney Bryan Freedman writes, “We are left with the inescapable conclusion that NBC and its production partners are grappling with systemic rot for which sunlight is the first necessary remedial measure.” He criticizes the stringent confidentiality provisions and severe penalties for breach within NBC’s contracts, which he claims have been used to silence those who would speak out against the mistreatment.
The cast and crew members, who are also represented by Mark Geragos, have made numerous allegations, including being supplied with alcohol while being deprived of basic necessities like food and sleep. They claim to have been trapped in their series even under dire circumstances and assert that acts of sexual violence have been covered up. Additionally, they allege that there have been issues with child labor, racism, sexism, and revenge pornography.
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One recent incident that highlights some of these allegations involves the firing of two castmates from the Bravo series “Below Deck Down Under” due to multiple instances of sexual misconduct being captured on camera. It is unclear whether any of the parties involved in that series are represented by Freedman and Geragos.
Freedman reminds NBCU in his letter that the company previously released certain employees from NDAs during the #MeToo movement. He states, “NBCUniversal has two choices: lead by example or be forced into compliance. This request is no different. We trust that NBCUniversal will do the right thing.”
The letter argues that the NDAs are unlawful and unenforceable under California law because they do not include the required language that explicitly allows individuals to discuss or disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace, such as harassment or discrimination.
Furthermore, the letter demands that NBCU inform its unscripted partners, specifically Evolution Media, which produces series within the “Real Housewives” and “Vanderpump Rules” franchises, that those bound by NDAs are released from any contractual provisions that interfere with their ability to disclose unlawful conduct in the workplace.
However, even if NBCU agrees to these demands, there may still be the possibility of litigation, as the letter suggests that the enforcement of these provisions has already resulted in civil liability.
As of now, NBCUniversal has not responded to the request for comment regarding these allegations and demands.
This latest development adds to the ongoing scrutiny and criticism surrounding reality television shows and the treatment of their cast and crew members. It highlights the need for increased transparency, accountability, and protections for individuals working in the reality TV industry. The outcome of this situation could potentially have significant implications for the future of these shows and the industry as a whole.
