Culture

Comedians Are Speaking Out Against Louis CK After Accusations Of Sexual Misconduct

Yep. It's another one.

Louis C.K.

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These bombshell reports of sexual misconduct allegations just keep coming. This morning, The New York Times reported that five women have come forward to accuse comedian Louis C.K. of sexual misconduct, including masturbating in front of a number of women without their consent.

In the article, comedy duo Dana Min Goodman and Julia Wolov allege that in 2002, Louis C.K. invited them back to his hotel room following a comedy performance, where he began masturbating without their consent.

Two other comedians, Abby Schachner and Rebecca Corry, also went on-record with allegations against C.K. — Schachner alleged that he began masturbating while on the phone to her, and Corry said that he asked to masturbate in front of her while they were coworkers on a television pilot. A fifth woman, who remains anonymous, also alleged that C.K. masturbated in front of her.

The allegations come after years of rumours of C.K.’s alleged sexual misconduct against in the comedy scene. In 2015, Gawker ran a piece detailing similar allegations against him that ultimately could not be substantiated. Even then, the rumours had been around for years.

The New York Times reports that Louis C.K. has refused to comment on the allegations against him. The premiere of his new film I Love You, Daddy, which was supposed to take place yesterday, was abruptly cancelled just hours before the eventas was an appearance on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. 

People have responded to the allegations against Louis C.K. with disappointment, but many have also noted that they were aware of the rumours before today. Parks and Recreation creator Mike Schur has already apologised for having Louis C.K. appear on episodes of the show, tweeting that he was aware of the rumours about C.K. at the time.

Other comedians including Michael Ian Black and Jason Alexander have also condemned his alleged actions.

The allegations against C.K. come just a month after the Times published a story containing decades of sexual assault allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein. In the aftermath of that story, more victims have come forward to accuse Weinstein and other high-profile men of further instances of sexual misconduct.

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.auIn an emergency, call 000.

Men can access anonymous confidential telephone counselling to help to stop using violent and controlling behaviour through the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.