An investigation into the culture at CBS, prompted by sexual misconduct claims against former CBS chief Leslie Moonves, has turned up more evidence of mistreatment at the network. This time, the complaint involves “Bull” star Michael Weatherly, known for his earlier work on another network hit, “NCIS.”
A New York Times story published Thursday shares details about a secret settlement made between CBS and “Bull” actress Eliza Dushku. The story says that Dushku, who complained about feeling “violated” on the set of the series, received a $9.5 million payout. CBS confirmed the existence of the settlement Thursday to USA TODAY.
Dushku, whose credits include “Dollhouse,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Bring It On,” had joined the show for three episodes at the end of the first season in March 2017 and was set to become a full-time cast member. However, as the report says, Dushku confronted the show’s main star, Michael Weatherly, for remarks he made that left her feeling uncomfortable. She was then written off of the show.
She claims “disgusting” behavior that included Weatherly saying he wanted to spank her and have a threesome, both in front of the cast and crew of “Bull,” which is now in its third season. According to the complaint, Weatherly also called a windowless van “a rape van.” Weatherly told The New York Times that his comments were meant as jokes.
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