Last week it was revealed that Gabrielle Union and Julianne Hough were being dropped from the judging panel of the talent show Amercia’s Got Talent after just one season. Now new details have emerged, saying the women had been subjected to a “toxic culture” on the show, including offensive jokes, extensive criticism of their appearance and being ignored. Variety reports the two female judges received “excessive notes on their physical appearance.” Union, 47, was told more than half a dozen times that her hair styles were “too black” for the audience of America’s Got Talent. Hough, 31, is said to have been subjected to consistent criticism on hair, make-up and wardrobe, which apparently led to tensions on the show. Union is also reported to have made several complaints about offensive jokes she witnessed during filming for the talent show, that were ignored by senior executives.
NBC said in a statement: “America’s Got Talent has a long history of inclusivity and diversity in both our talent and the acts championed by the show. The judging and host line-up has been regularly refreshed over the years and that is one of the reasons for AGT’s enduring popularity. NBC and the producers take any issues on set seriously.”
Union declined to comment on the matter; however Hough denied the claims in a statement, saying: “I had a wonderful time on America’s Got Talent, I loved working with the cast, crew and producers. I am happy to continue my working relationship with NBC."
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