Toxic Set Allegations That Sparked Investigations

From daytime talk shows to prestige dramas and blockbuster films, a number of high profile productions have faced serious claims about what happened behind the scenes. In many cases those allegations kicked off internal reviews by studios and networks, outside counsel inquiries, or formal government investigations focused on workplace culture and safety. Below is a roundup of widely reported instances where allegations prompted a closer look, along with what was examined and what changed afterward.

‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ (2003–2022)

In 2020 allegations about a hostile work environment surfaced from current and former staffers, prompting WarnerMedia to open an internal investigation. The company interviewed employees and reviewed management practices across the show’s production. Several executive producers departed after the inquiry concluded and staff received communications about policy and culture changes. The host addressed the matter on air and the production implemented new HR protocols and training.

‘America’s Got Talent’ (2006– )

Following 2019 concerns raised by judge Gabrielle Union about workplace culture and specific incidents, NBC and producer Fremantle engaged outside counsel to investigate. Interviews were conducted with personnel and stakeholders who had knowledge of the issues. The network stated it would take steps to improve reporting channels and sensitivity training. The outcome included updated processes for raising concerns during production.

‘House of Cards’ (2013–2018)

After allegations against lead actor Kevin Spacey became public in 2017, Netflix and producer MRC suspended production and initiated an investigation. The review focused on behavior on set and how complaints had been handled historically. Spacey was removed from the series and production resumed with reworked scripts and new protocols. The producers later outlined additional safeguards for cast and crew going forward.

‘The Rookie’ (2018– )

In 2019 series regular Afton Williamson alleged harassment and discrimination during the first season of production. Entertainment One, the show’s studio, commissioned an independent law firm to investigate the claims. The firm reported it could not substantiate several allegations but recommended procedural improvements. The studio said it enhanced training and clarified complaint pathways for future seasons.

‘Transparent’ (2014–2019)

Amazon Studios opened an investigation in 2017 after harassment allegations against lead actor Jeffrey Tambor. External investigators interviewed cast and crew and reviewed on set conduct. Tambor exited the series following the inquiry and production adjusted to complete a final musical episode. Amazon also expanded its guidelines and training related to workplace behavior.

‘Bachelor in Paradise’ (2017– )

Production halted in 2017 after a complaint about on set conduct involving cast members. Warner Bros. Television initiated an internal investigation and engaged third party review of footage and procedures. The inquiry concluded there was no evidence of misconduct but the series returned with stricter alcohol limits and consent and safety protocols. Producers also implemented clearer guidelines for crew intervention.

‘Survivor’ (2000– )

During the 2019 season a contestant reported inappropriate behavior by another contestant, prompting CBS and the production company to investigate in real time. Producers interviewed participants and consulted standards and practices while the game was ongoing. The contestant in question was later removed from the show for an off camera incident that violated rules. CBS subsequently announced expanded training, independent reporting options, and on site HR resources for future seasons.

‘The Goldbergs’ (2013–2023)

Reports in 2021 and 2022 about Jeff Garlin’s on set conduct led Sony Pictures Television to conduct HR investigations. Interviews were held with crew and production leadership about workplace behavior and boundaries. Garlin’s departure from the series was announced and his character was written out using existing footage and creative edits. The studio reiterated expectations for respectful conduct on set and updated oversight procedures.

‘The Talk’ (2010– )

In 2021 CBS placed the show on hiatus and launched an internal review after an on air exchange sparked complaints from staff. The investigation examined the workplace environment and how concerns were escalated. Sharon Osbourne exited the series following the review. CBS said it introduced additional training and refined its processes for handling complaints.

‘Today’ (1952– )

After allegations against Matt Lauer surfaced in 2017, NBC News quickly opened an internal investigation into workplace conduct and policies. Investigators interviewed employees and assessed how prior complaints were managed. Lauer was terminated and the report led to policy changes including enhanced training and multiple reporting avenues. NBC News shared a summary of the findings with staff and emphasized zero tolerance measures.

‘Justice League’ (2017)

In 2020 actor Ray Fisher alleged misconduct during reshoots, leading WarnerMedia to commission an outside investigation. The process included interviews with cast, crew, and production executives and a review of notes and documentation. WarnerMedia said remedial action was taken after the inquiry concluded. The company also discussed improving channels for reporting issues on future projects.

‘Rust’ (2024)

Following the 2021 on set shooting that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injured the director, law enforcement and workplace safety agencies opened investigations. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office and local prosecutors examined criminal responsibility while New Mexico’s safety authority reviewed set procedures. The safety agency issued fines and mandated corrective actions for the production. Separate legal proceedings evaluated armorer practices and live ammunition handling on set.

‘The Royals’ (2015–2018)

In 2017 and 2018 allegations about showrunner Mark Schwahn’s behavior led E! and producer Universal Cable Productions to investigate. Interviews with cast and crew were conducted across multiple seasons of the series. Schwahn was terminated following the inquiry and production moved forward under revised leadership. The studio communicated updated expectations and resources for reporting concerns.

‘NCIS’ (2003– )

Reports in 2018 about set tensions and safety concerns related to incidents with a production dog led CBS to review the workplace environment. HR conducted interviews with cast and crew and looked at how complaints were escalated. Adjustments were made to on set procedures and interactions that might pose safety risks. The network reinforced guidelines around raising and addressing concerns during production.

‘The Kelly Clarkson Show’ (2019– )

In 2023 and 2024 workplace concerns reported by staff prompted NBCUniversal to assess conditions behind the scenes. The studio engaged HR and compliance teams to interview employees and evaluate day to day practices. The production introduced new leadership roles, added HR presence, and set pay and training improvements. Producers communicated a commitment to continuing oversight and clearer feedback channels.

‘The X Factor’ (2004–2016)

After former contestants publicly described negative experiences, ITV and the production companies reviewed duty of care measures. The network examined welfare support, psychological services, and complaint handling during filming. Changes followed across talent shows including enhanced aftercare and independent advisors. The review informed updated guidelines applied to subsequent entertainment formats.

‘The Chi’ (2018– )

In 2019 allegations about actor Jason Mitchell’s conduct led Showtime and the studio to investigate. Interviews with cast and crew and reviews of prior complaints were part of the process. Mitchell exited the series and his character was written out ahead of the next season. The production strengthened its policies on set and provided additional training for staff.

‘The Bachelor’ Franchise Aftercare Specials (2002– )

Beyond the main series, periodic reviews have examined how producers handle mental health and contestant welfare. Investigations and internal audits looked at support before and after filming and the clarity of consent and boundaries. The outcomes included expanded access to counselors and stricter alcohol and downtime policies. Franchise producers also clarified how participants can raise issues privately during production.

‘Below Deck’ (2013– )

Multiple seasons have involved on camera complaints about behavior that prompted immediate production and network reviews. Bravo and the producers have investigated specific incidents, interviewed participants, and adjusted filming protocols midseason. Episodes have documented removals of cast members following rule violations. The network has highlighted new safeguards and clearer lines for reporting problems to producers.

‘The Kelly Clarkson Show’ Live Taping Practices (2019– )

Alongside broader workplace reviews, producers examined live taping schedules and turnaround times after staff feedback. HR and production managers assessed workloads, breaks, and escalation routes for complaints. The show implemented adjustments to shift planning, added HR onsite hours, and regularized manager check ins. Ongoing monitoring was put in place to ensure the changes were working for crew and support teams.

Share your thoughts in the comments about which cases you think led to the most meaningful changes on set.