Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President John Bailey has been cleared of an accusation of sexual harassment following an internal investigation, the Academy announced Tuesday night.
The Oscars organization, which launched the investigation two weeks ago, said in a statement that it “unanimously determined” Bailey should remain president, and that no further action is merited.
The Academy also said it took the accusation seriously, and was “cognizant of the rights of both the claimant and the accused,” adding that it had consulted “outside counsel with expertise in matters related to harassment.”
“The Academy respects the confidentiality of both the claimant and John Bailey, and will refrain from discussing the specifics regarding the claim,” the group said Tuesday. “The Academy’s goal is to encourage workplace environments that support creativity, equality, and respect.”
Variety reported March 16 that three harassment accusations had been made against Bailey. However, in its statement the Academy said it received only one claim. Previously, Bailey said the accusation was a “false narrative” and said in a statement he cares “deeply about women’s issues and supports equal treatment and access for all individuals working in this profession.”
The accusation against him came after months of upheaval in show business following the Harvey Weinstein scandal. The Academy revoked Weinstein’s membership after dozens of women came forward accusing him of rape, sexual assault and sexual harassment. Weinstein has consistently denied engaging in any nonconsensual sex.
In December, the Academy issued renewed “standards of conduct.”
“There is no place in the Academy for people who abuse their status, power or influence in a manner that violates recognized standards of decency,” the new standards read. “The Academy is categorically opposed to any form of abuse, harassment or discrimination on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, age, religion, or nationality.”
Bailey, elected to his position last August, counts among his film credits “American Gigolo,” “Ordinary People,” “The Big Chill,” “Groundhog Day,” “The Way, Way Back” and “A Walk in the Woods.”
He also directed the 1991 Ed Harris movie “China Moon,” the 1996 indie drama “Mariette in Ecstasy” and the 2001 music doc “NSync: Bigger Than Life.”
Bailey is the first-ever president from the cinematographers branch of the organization, which chooses the annual Academy Award winners.