On Tuesday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that an internal investigation had cleared Academy President John Bailey, who was accused of sexual harassment earlier this month. Read the full story here.
In a statement, the Academy said it had “unanimously determined” no action was warranted and that Bailey should remain in his post. The group said it took the accusation against Bailey “very seriously,” and conducted its investigation “cognizant” of Bailey’s rights and the rights of his accuser. Following its announcement, the organization said it would not comment further on the matter.
Read the Academy’s full statement below:
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced today that it has concluded its review, based on its Standards of Conduct, into the allegation made against Academy President John Bailey. The Membership and Administration Committee and its sub-committee thoroughly reviewed and considered the claim, John Bailey’s response, and corroborating statements from both parties. The Academy took the claim very seriously and was cognizant of the rights of both the claimant and the accused, including consulting with outside counsel with expertise in matters related to harassment.
Contrary to previous reports, there was only one claim under consideration which was received on Tuesday, March 13, 2018.
Throughout the process, the Academy received advice and counsel from its longstanding General Counsel John Quinn at Quinn Emanuel, as well as from Ivy Kagan Bierman, a partner at Loeb & Loeb who has extensive experience with entertainment industry sexual harassment matters and is currently an advisor to The Commission on Eliminating Sexual Harassment and Promoting Equality in the Workplace, chaired by Anita Hill.
The Committee unanimously determined that no further action was merited on this matter. The findings and recommendations of the committee were reported to the Board which endorsed its recommendation. John Bailey remains President of the Academy.
The Academy respects the confidentiality of both the claimant and John Bailey, and will refrain from discussing the specifics regarding the claim.
The Academy’s goal is to encourage workplace environments that support creativity, equality, and respect.