While most cases of sexual harassment involve men harassing women, the fact is that anyone can become a sexual harassment victim.

A middle-aged male Disney Cruise Line employee recently filed a sexual harassment lawsuit alleging his younger, female boss created a hostile work environment that eventually led to his termination.

The plaintiff worked for Disney Cruise Lines for the past 18 years, and claims he was fired after he complained about his boss’ behavior. The official reason for his firing, however, was illegal substance use.

Disney Cruise Lines, a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company, which operates four ships, claims the allegations are without merit.

An Unusual Filing

While it is unusual for men to file sexual harassment lawsuits regarding women, it is not unprecedented. However, men who file sexual harassment lawsuits most often file them against other men, or because they are harassed due to their sexual or gender identity.

Sexual discrimination laws, however, protect workers who are discriminated against because of their sex, no matter whether they are female or male.

Over 40 versus Under 40

The plaintiff did not give his age or the age of his boss, other than to state he was over 40 and she was under 40. His allegations include harsh comments regarding his age, including that the manager referred to him as a “stuffy old fart” in front of other employees.

He further claims that she bragged about sleeping with married men, and provided details to him about the various sex acts in which she engaged. The plaintiff, who takes prescription medication for anxiety and attention deficit disorder, further alleges that his former boss stole some of his medication from him.

Age Discrimination

While the sexual harassment allegations are gaining media attention, the plaintiff’s lawsuit also concerns alleged age discrimination. According to the lawsuit, the plaintiff was replaced by a female under the age of 40 after being fired, and other leaders on his work team over age 40 were also “systematically” terminated or forced to resign, and then replaced with younger employees.

He claims that while younger members of the team received iPhones and tablets, his boss would not provide him with similar items. Additionally, she moved his office to a windowless space.

Most importantly, the plaintiff claims he was passed over for any promotions, even though he was more qualified and senior to those who received the jobs. He states that all of the senior managers and top executives in his division were female, and that did not reflect the division’s overall gender makeup.

Middletown Sexual Harassment Lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. Represent Victims of Sexual Harassment

If you or a loved one have been a victim of sexual or any other form of harassment, you need the services of the experienced Middletown sexual harassment lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. 

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.