Members of the cast and crew of the beloved TV series One Tree Hill have come together to address allegations of s**ual harassment and misconduct against the show’s former executive producer Mark Schwahn.
In a joint letter released to ET on Monday, lead actresses Sophia Bush, Hilarie Burton, Bethany Joy Lenz, along with all female cast members and some crew members, expressed solidarity with Audrey Wauchope and each other.
Audrey Wauchope, who served as a staff writer on the show alongside Rachel Specter, recently took to Twitter to accuse the unnamed showrunner of s**ually harassing her during her time on the series.
However, the collective statement by the cast and crew directly implicated Schwahn, describing his behavior throughout the filming of One Tree Hill as an ‘open secret.’
The letter detailed how many individuals were emotionally manipulated, leading to post-traumatic stress among some.
It also highlighted instances where women felt physically threatened or were subjected to illegal and traumatizing treatment.
According to the letter, the women on set supported each other by creating safe spaces to discuss the behavior and warned new female members.
They alleged that everyone on the show was aware of what was happening.
The group claimed they were coerced into silence, with threats of cancellation if they spoke out against the toxic environment.
Despite maintaining outward silence, they communicated within their circles and industry to protect the show’s image.
The letter emphasized the need for change and empowerment, acknowledging the support received from male colleagues.
It concluded with a message urging the importance of believing women and standing united against such behavior.
Signed by several cast and crew members, including Danneel Harris, Michaela McManus, and Jana Kramer, the letter signifies a collective effort to address the issue and support those affected.
Sophia Bush shared the letter on Twitter, expressing her pride in the solidarity shown by the women involved.
Hilarie Burton echoed the sentiment, reclaiming what they deserved after years of silence.
The revelations made by Audrey Wauchope shed light on the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry, paralleling recent accusations against other prominent figures like Andrew Kreisberg and Louis C.K.
As the industry grapples with a wave of s**ual misconduct allegations, the call for accountability and change grows louder, prompting a reevaluation of workplace culture and treatment of individuals.
