Ricky Gervais Responds to Misconduct Allegations Against ‘After Life’ Producer

Ricky Gervais responded to the misconduct allegations that have emerged against ‘After Life’ producer, Charlie Hanson. The producer was a long-time collaborator on numerous projects by the British comedian.

Gervais expressed his shock as he said he was appalled to learn of the historical allegations made by various women against Charlie. He revealed that the decision to immediately eradicate him from production was made. The comedian further added that he is confident that the matter is being handled thoroughly.

Charlie produced two seasons of Ricky and Stephen Merchant’s BBC and HBO comedy series, Extras. They also collaborated on the film, Cemetry Junction. Charlie was also behind Ricky and Stephens series, Life’s Too Short and Derek. The producer was revealed to have been removed from a Netflix production after an anonymous tip detailed his historical allegations.

The news of the producer being removed was first reported by an industry outlet, Broadcast but did not reveal Charlie’s name. U.K’s The Times revealed that the executive was Charlie. Netflix then confirmed that the production in question was season 3 of After Life. As per the outlet, 11 women have complained about Charlie’s misconduct.

“Charlie Hanson is a predator who uses his reputation, connections and standing in order to groom far younger, impressionable and sometimes vulnerable women into trusting him,” the women alleged in an email addressed to Netflix and BAFTA. It is understood that Hanson and his lawyers have not yet been sent a copy of this letter.

Charlie Denies All Allegations Made Against Him

The letter further revealed that he promised people a starry career under his wing and then exploits that trust in creepy and illegal ways. “He then tries to diminish the seriousness of what he’s done by telling these young women — us — that it wasn’t as bad as it seemed, that it was somehow blameless. He does his best to convince himself — and others — that this method of operating is fine. But we know it is not fine,” continued the letter.

Charlie has denied all the allegations through his lawyer and released a statement. His attorney shared that Charlie is shocked and appalled by these historical and false allegations of improper conduct towards women. The statement further added that he maintains that he has not acted inappropriately on any production or at all.

“I have been made aware of allegations made against me concerning improper conduct towards women dating back many years. Based on the summaries that have been provided to me, I understand that many of these accusations are made anonymously and are demonstrably false.

I have not had one complaint in decades of work in the media industry. (And) I categorically reject any wrongdoing on my part, and strongly refute the allegations that have been levelled at me. (But) I have worked with and supported hundreds of men and women during my working life and will do what is necessary to protect and/or restore my reputation. I will also cooperate with any formal inquiries. The matter is now in the hands of my solicitors.”

Also Read: SNL Personality Pete Davidson Might Be Done With The Show After Seven Long Years