Gabrielle Union appeared on “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” and spoke again on her departure from “America’s Got Talent” and the racism that exists in the entertainment industry.
“We have to dismantle the whole thing. We can’t put a Band-Aid on a gunshot wound.”
Union stands on the fact that her exit from “America’s Got Talent” was the result of her reported complaints about a “toxic” work environment. That environment included inappropriate behavior, misogynistic conduct, and harassment. She reports that producers often called her hairstyles “too Black,” and shares that inappropriate racial jokes were made during her tenure on the show.
Union thought the investigation, prompted by NBC, would be conducted “independently.” She was shocked to learn who led and paid for the investigation.
The situation got worse when the production team sent “inflammatory” things to the network’s chairman Paul Telegdy, who she says used the information against her.
“He then threatens my agent,” she said. “ ‘Gabrielle better watch who she calls a racist’ in the middle of an investigation about racism and discrimination. This is what’s happening from the top of the company.”
The “Bring It On” star wants Hollywood to do a better job to fight racism. “There has to be an increase in representation across the board from top to bottom. We have to be able to be okay with change that doesn’t always benefit us.”
We’re so proud of Gabrielle using her voice to push Hollywood. Will Hollywood get on board?
