Les Moonves Ousted Amid Assault and Harassment Allegations

Les Moonves, CBS’ chief executive is being shown the door after numerous sexual misconduct allegations, which were first reported by Ronan Farrow of the New Yorker. The article claims that some of the women spoke out because CBS failed to take appropriate actions. The announcement of Moonves’ departure ends the battle between the CEO and the controlling shareholder, Shari Redstone, for control of CBS. Moonves headed the network for more than 20 years.

Moonves was one of the world’s highest-paid CEOs. With a contract that was due to expire in 2021, he would have been eligible to receive an exit deal worth $180 million. But with the allegations of sexual harassment, such a large payout is sure to spark backlash against the company. Even so, one source revealed that the CEO could still earn $100 million. CBS recently announced that Moonves and CBS will donate $20 million to the #MeToo movement and other groups that fight for equality in the workplace for women. The donation would come from any severance Moonves might receive.

Moonves Joins Long List of Fallen Company Heads

For years, Hollywood entertainment companies and industries of every kind have swept sexual misconduct complaints under the rug. All of that began to change when allegations were made that movie producer Harvey Weinstein had abused his power to take advantage of women for decades. The resulting movement, known as #MeToo, has swept the nation and the world, inspiring the victims of sexual harassment to come forward and speak up.

At least 25 percent of women report that they have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace. Unfortunately, because this particular offense has such powerful societal and emotional ramifications, many women are fearful of reporting it. It has been estimated that somewhere between 87 and 94 percent of victims never report incidents of sexual misconduct.  A recent Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) study disclosed that as many as 85 percent of women have experienced sexual harassment on the job. For those who do report it, the backlash can be frightening. One study found that 75 percent of the victims who reported sexual harassment had experienced retaliation.

Red Bank Sexual Harassment Lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. Fight for Victims of Harassment

No one should be forced to tolerate sexual harassment or gender inequality on the job or live in fear for reporting sexual misconduct. The Red Bank sexual harassment lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. will stand up for your rights at work. Call us today or complete our online contact form for a free evaluation of your case. Call our Red Bank office at 732-842-6500, our Marlton office at 856-985-9800, our Newark office at 973-878-9040, or contact us at 888-396-0736 or online for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout New Jersey.