Jeffery Tambor has decided not to come back on the comedy series “Transparent”, after two women accused the actor of sexual harassment.
The claims were made by Tambor’s former assistant Van Barnes and co-actor Tracy Lysette, which the actor has denied.
Speaking to Deadline, the multiple award-winning actor said, “Playing Maura Pfefferman on ‘Transparent’ has been one of the greatest privileges and creative experiences of my life. What has become clear over the past weeks, however, is that this is no longer the job I signed up for four years ago.
“I’ve already made clear my deep regret if any action of mine was ever misinterpreted by anyone as being aggressive, but the idea that I would deliberately harass anyone is simply and utterly untrue. Given the politicised atmosphere that seems to have afflicted our set, I don’t see how I can return to Transparent,” he added.
The actor, 73, had issued a statement denying the accusations, saying it was “distressing” for him to be labelled as a predator.
Showrunners Amazon has launched an internal investigation.
According to reports, the creator of the show, Jill Soloway, and its writers are trying to save the show from being axed.
Tambor essayed Maura in the show, a retired college professor, who finally opens up to her family about always identifying as a woman.
“Transparent” has been renewed for a fifth spell. Its fourth season aired on September 22.
