‘Blacklisted’ Crew Sues for Sexual Harassment
Former Crewmembers Sue Disney Over Alleged Sexual Harassment on Set of “Doctor Odyssey”
Three former crewmembers of the ABC medical series “Doctor Odyssey” have filed a lawsuit against 20th Century and its parent company Disney, alleging that they were subjected to months of unchecked sexual harassment on the set of the show. Plaintiffs Caroline Mack, Alicia Haverland, and Ava Steinbrenner claim that assistant prop master Tyler Patton made sexual jokes, innuendos, gestures, and unwanted touching towards them, including openly grabbing a female employee’s buttocks.
In the lawsuit, it is alleged that Tyler Patton sent inappropriate content to prop department employees, including a misleading story that redirected to a picture of a naked male. Patton also reportedly made derogatory comments and engaged in inappropriate behavior, including making sexual propositions towards female co-workers.
The suit further claims that Tyler Patton was hired by Disney despite prior allegations of sexual harassment against him. His wife, Tammie Patton, who was the lead prop master on “Doctor Odyssey,” was also named in the lawsuit for allegedly engaging in retaliatory behavior after Tyler’s termination. The plaintiffs state that they were eventually laid off, leading to a new set of employees being hired by Disney.
According to the lawsuit, the plaintiffs have been blacklisted by Disney in retaliation for reporting the harassment they experienced. Disney has not yet responded to the allegations made in the lawsuit.
“Doctor Odyssey” has not been renewed for a second season, making it the only scripted series at ABC with an uncertain future. The lawsuit sheds light on the importance of addressing workplace harassment and ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all employees in the entertainment industry.
