E! concludes Ryan Seacrest sexual harassment claim 'could not be substantiated'

Posted by RODNEY HO/rho@ajc.com on his AJC Radio & TV Talk blog on Thursday, February 1, 2018

E! could not substantiate a claim made by a wardrobe stylist that "American Idol" host and Atlanta native Ryan Seacrest had behaved inappropriately with her nearly a decade ago.

“E! has now concluded the investigation into allegations regarding Ryan Seacrest,” a network spokesperson said in a statement given to Deadline.com. “The investigation, conducted by outside counsel, found insufficient evidence to support the claims against Seacrest and therefore could not be substantiated. E! is committed to providing a safe working environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.”

Seacrest, co-host of the daily "Live With Kelly and Ryan," revealed the allegations in November to get ahead of the story in the weeks following the Harvey Weinstein bombshell accusations that led to the #MeToo movement.

“Recently, someone that worked as a wardrobe stylist for me nearly a decade ago at E! News, came forward with a complaint suggesting I behaved inappropriately toward her,” he said at the time in a statement. “If I made her feel anything but respected, I am truly sorry... . I’m distraught that anyone or any situation would call that into question. I’m proud of my workplace reputation, and believe my track record will speak for itself. I’m an advocate for women. I will continue to support their voices.”

A source told Deadline.com that the wardrobe stylist asked for money to stay quiet. He chose to publicize it instead.