Yahoo News Netflix cancels Arrested Development UK tour
The following article contains allegations of sexual misconduct that some readers may find distressing.
Netflix has pulled the plug on a UK promotional visit for the cast of Arrested Development, following the backlash over a recent interview.
Jessica Walter claimed this week that she was verbally harassed by co-star Jeffrey Tambor while working on the Emmy-winning series.
Tambor has been at the centre of controversy since being accused of sexual harassment last year by former assistant Van Barnes and Transparent co-star Trace Lysette - allegations he denies.
On Tuesday (May 23), the cast began granting a series of promotional interviews, one of which was an in-depth discussion of Tambor's conduct with the New York Times while he was present.
During the interview, Jason Bateman appeared to downplay claims that Tambor verbally harassed co-star Walter while working on the show, arguing that "certain people have certain processes".
"In the entertainment industry it is incredibly common to have people who are, in quotes, 'difficult'," Bateman said.
"Not to belittle what happened... but this is a family, and families, you know, have love, laughter, arguments – again, not to belittle it, but a lot of stuff happens in 15 years."
After these quotes caused a big controversy online over Bateman seemingly undermining his female co-star, Netflix has now made the decision to cancel the UK visit.
"We had planned to have most of the Arrested Development cast in London this week to support the launch of the new season and meet fans," reads a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter.
"At this time we have decided not to move ahead with promotional activity in the UK but hope to bring the cast back at another time."
Bateman has apologised for his comments in a series of tweets, saying that he did not understand how Walter had been affected by Tambor's behaviour.
Arrested Development premieres the first half of its fifth season on Tuesday, May 29 on Netflix. The second half is expected to drop at a later date.
Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of sexual violence. If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland's helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
Want up-to-the-minute entertainment news and features? Just hit 'Like' on our Digital Spy Facebook page and 'Follow' on our @digitalspy Twitter account and you're all set.
You Might Also Like
