Sexual harassment in Hollywood ‘tolerated for much too long’: John Wells

American producer and director John Wells on Wednesday took to stage to talk about the prevalent, predatory behaviour of rich, powerful men in different walks of life, saying “it’s long past time” to ask for integrity, “respect, and honesty for all of our peers”.

Wells — who is known for his work on TV series ER, Third Watch, Shameless, and The West Wing — was speaking at the Television Academy’s Hall of Fame induction in Los Angeles as one of the event’s honorees.

“Sexual and workplace harassment in the industry has been tolerated for much too long. It’s finally coming out from the shadows and into the light,” the director said, Variety reported.

“We’re all asking what we can do about it, and it’s simple: it’s long past time for us to all demand integrity in our working relationships, respect and honesty for all of our peers, equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their gender or race, because we’re all in this together.”

In a twist — that may have made some of the audience shift uneasily in their seats — Wells commented that those associated with the entertainment industry, particularly Hollywood, used their “privilege” shield.

That, therefore, is why “it’s on us to ensure that everyone we work with is valued and safe to pursue their dreams and their ambitions”, he concluded.