Seacrest Claims Sexual Harassment Allegations Were An Extortion Attempt
As Ryan Seacrest continues to deny claims he rubbed his erect penis on his former stylist, the host has now alleged the bombshell sexual harassment accusations against him were an extortion attempt.
As RadarOnline.com readers know, Variety published a report this Monday about a former stylist who claimed Seacrest, 43, sexually harassed her. Among other things, the woman claimed the TV star groped her vagina. (The star has denied the allegations, and an independent investigation found there was “insufficient evidence” to support her claims.)
In a lengthy statement, Seacrest said in part:
"Yesterday, VARIETY published a salacious story that revealed the specific claims against me for the first time – even though an independent third-party investigator found insufficient evidence to support the claims. Much to my dismay, Variety didn’t speak with me or bother to speak with other credible witnesses or even ask for any of the evidence that was obtained during the investigation when offered, all of which clearly challenged the veracity of the claims made against me.
"This person who has accused me of horrible things tried to buy her silence by asking for money on multiple occasions — I refused. I have worked extremely hard to achieve my success and I don’t take my opportunities for granted. I don’t want to accuse anyone of not telling the truth but in this case, I have no choice but to again deny the claims against me, remind people that I was recused of any wrongdoing, and put the matter to rest."
- Katy Perry's 'American Idol' Exit Sparks Feud Between Ryan Seacrest and Remaining Judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan: Report
- Ryan Seacrest's Height Causing 'Wheel of Fortune' Set to Undergo Major Changes: Report
- Katy Perry 'Distances' Herself From Ryan Seacrest on Set After Announcing 'American Idol' Exit
As fans know, after the drama unfolded, Seacrest’s coworkers stood by his side, as did the network. On this Tuesday’s Live! show, cohost Kelly Ripa even refused to address the sexual harassment allegations!
During this morning’s Live! show, the beloved host ignored the topic completely, and instead gushed that her pal was “the nicest guy” amid a discussion about teeth whitening.
“She insisted they ignore it,” a backstage insider told RadarOnline.com.
A Live! spokesperson confirmed they would not be commenting on the scandal.
We pay for juicy info! Do you have a story for RadarOnline.com? Email us at tips@radaronline.com, or call us at (866) ON-RADAR (667-2327) any time, day or night.