Warner Bros. Chairman and CEO Kevin Tsujihara has stepped aside from his high profile job amid sexual misconduct allegations.
Tsujihara’s name is now among Hollywood’s biggest figures to feature in a list of sexual offenders. The sexual misconduct allegations arose as rumors surfaced that he offered actresses roles for sex. According to USA TODAY, WarnerMedia, the company once known as Time Warner, “began an investigation after a story in The Hollywood Reporter this month suggested a quid pro quo sexual relationship between an aspiring actress and the studio executive.”
A report also highlights Tsujihara’s recent promotion, expanding his tasks and roles within the billion dollar company. “Two days before the story was published, WarnerMedia gave Tsujihara an expanded role, adding a portfolio of kids and young adults businesses, including Cartoon Network, Adult Swim and Turner Classic Movies, to his position as head of Warner Bros. Entertainment.”
In a statement from the organization, Tsujihara was thanked by the organization for his service. The release by WarnerMedia CEO John Stankey also acknowledged how important it was for the media boss to step aside for investigations. The statement read, “Kevin acknowledges that his mistakes are inconsistent with the company’s leadership expectations and could impact the company’s ability to execute going forward.”
Tsujihara is the latest addition to the list of Hollywood executives to step aside in the wake of the #MeToo movement. Though the investigation is still in progress, Tsujihara could face charges if found guilty of sexual misconduct.
The #MeToo movement gained momentum in 2019 when thousands of women came forward with claims of sexual harassment. Lead by American social activist Tarana Burke and ‘Charmed’ actress Alyssa Milano, the movement has exposed overlooked instances of sexual abuse and sexual harassment in Tinsel town and beyond. Hollywood executives Harvey Weinstein, and actors Bill Cosby and Kevin Spacey are among the biggest names to toppled by the #MeToo movement.
