An investigation into The Rookie actress Afton Williamson’s claims of sexual harassment and assault has found no “inappropriate behavior” from those identified in the claim.
In August, Williamson left the ABC series after allegedly facing sexual harassment and racial discrimination at the hands of a cast and crew member.
In a lengthy Instagram post, Williamson revealed that it was allegedly the show’s recurring guest star, Demetrius Grosse, who sexually harassed her, before adding that hair department head, Sally Nicole Ciganovich, had allegedly bullied and sexually assaulted her.
“To my Fans, my Friends, my Supporters: I want to thank EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU. I am so beyond overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, kind words, scriptures, strength filled quotes and devout support that has come my way,” Williamson wrote.
“This season on The Rookie, I was sexually harassed by fellow actor Demetrius Grosse. I was racially bullied and discriminated against and sexually assaulted by hair department head Sally Nicole Ciganovich.”
The company behind the series, eOne, released a statement following the results of the investigation, concluding that “those identified in Ms. Williamson’s allegations did not conduct themselves in an unlawful manner or demonstrate behavior inappropriate for the workplace.”
“It was also concluded that the executive producers, including showrunner Alexi Hawley, addressed matters of which they were made aware promptly and in a fair and reasonable manner.”
Grosse’s attorney Andrew Brettler also shared a statement on his behalf, claiming that the accusations had harmed the actor’s career.
“Demetrius Grosse was wrongfully accused and has been exonerated of the alleged misconduct regarding his work on The Rookie. After a lengthy and thorough investigation, independent counsel concluded, unequivocally, that the allegations leveled against him were completely meritless. My client was libeled all over the media before any of the claims could even be verified. No one should publish serious allegations like these in such a reckless manner. Demetrius lost multiple jobs as a result of being falsely accused. We’re glad that the investigation has been completed and are grateful to eOne for its unwavering support. Onward.”
An ABC/ABC Studios spokesperson told Deadline that they were “glad that eOne has completed an investigation into allegations on the set of The Rookie,” and are confident that the company “takes these matters seriously and that they will continue to look for the best ways to surface concerns and address complaints.”
After the release of the announcement, Williamson took to social media to call the results of the investigation “heartbreaking.”
“What saddens me the most is that the lengths that were taken to deceive, lie, and cover up the truth, were far greater than those made to protect and maintain a safe working environment for employees,” she wrote. “It’s heartbreaking for everyone on that set, past and present. And for every actor who stands in the face of harassment and discrimination, assault and injustice.”