Ricky Gervais Speaks Out Following 'After Life' Producer Charlie Hanson Accusations

Ricky Gervais is speaking out after longtime collaborator Charlie Hanson was accused of predatory behavior by several women.

Over the weekend, several people came forward about Charlie‘s behavior towards them.

Although his name was omitted from the anonymous complaint that was sent to Netflix and BAFTA, The Times revealed it was Charlie, who is a producer on After Life. He has since been removed from After Life and suspended by BAFTA.

Click inside to read Ricky Gervais’ statement on the matter…

Ricky shared a statement following the accusations and action regarding Charlie.

“I am shocked and appalled to learn of the historical allegations made by a number of women against Charlie Hanson. The decision was made to immediately remove him from production and I am confident the matter is being handled thoroughly,” he shared.

An excerpt of the anonymous email was published in The Times, reading “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.”

It went on: “At times he will promise them 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.”

For his part, Charlie has denied the claims.

“I have not had one complaint in decades of work in the media industry. I categorically reject any wrongdoing on my part, and strongly refute the allegations that have been levelled [sic] at me. 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.”

Charlie Hanson is not the first producer or celebrity to face sexual harassment accusations this year. This Broadway producer also came under fire.