In November, actor Jeffrey Tambor of Transparent became the latest in an unfortunately long line of powerful men in the media to be accused of sexual misconduct. Just yesterday we found out that Amazon had decided to part ways with Tambor after investigating the claims against him. Now, Tambor is firing back at the streaming service and series creator Jill Soloway over his dismissal. Here's what Tambor had to say.
I am profoundly disappointed in Amazon's handling of these false accusations against me. I am even more disappointed in Jill Soloway's unfair characterization of me as someone who would ever cause harm to any of my fellow cast mates. In our four-year history of working together on this incredible show, these accusations have NEVER been revealed or discussed directly with me or anyone at Amazon. Therefore, I can only surmise that the investigation against me was deeply flawed and biased toward the toxic politicized atmosphere that afflicted our set. As I have consistently stated, I deeply regret if any action of mine was ever misinterpreted by anyone and I will continue to vehemently defend myself. I also deeply regret that this ground-breaking show, which changed so many lives, is now in jeopardy. That, to me, is the biggest heartbreak.
As you can see from Jeffrey Tambor's words, he clearly feels that the investigation into the allegations made by three women, including his former assistant and Transparent actress Trace Lysette, wasn't handled correctly. According to Tambor, no one ever spoke to him, or anyone at Amazon, about the allegations, and blames "the toxic politicized atmosphere" (which he's spoken about before) of the Transparent set for how the investigation was handled.
Since the allegations were first brought against Tambor, he's maintained his innocence, and continues to do so in the wake of his firing. He also notes that, to him, the "biggest heartbreak" to come out of this situation, is that fact that a show that's come to mean so much to so many people is now "in jeopardy."
While Amazon has not revealed the details of the investigation into the claims against Jeffrey Tambor, sources to Deadline have said that what they found out showed that his conduct "could not be justified or excused under scrutiny."
Tambor will likely continue to defend himself against the claims that were made against him, even with his firing from the show being a done deal. In the meantime, Transparent is still gearing up for Season 5, which is set to debut sometime this year, but we don't know if it will be the show's last season or not. The other main cast members have all stuck with the show, and the writers are currently working on ways to continue the series without Tambor's character.
