Neil deGrasse Tyson accused of sexual harassment
Multiple women have accused renowned astrophysicist and television presenter Neil deGrasse Tyson of sexual misconduct.
Both Fox and National Geographic networks have launched investigations into the allegations since becoming aware of them.
Neil deGrasse Tyson ‘predatory tendencies’
Patheos.com published stories from two of the women who both claim that Tyson behaved in a sexually inappropriate manner.
Doctor Katelyn Allers, an associate professor of physics and astronomy, said Tyson “felt her up” at a conference in 2009.
“After we had taken the picture, he noticed my tattoo and kind of grabbed me to look at it, and was really obsessed about whether I had Pluto on this tattoo or not… and then he looked for Pluto, and followed the tattoo into my dress.”
Additionally, a former assistant to Tyson, Ashley Watson, said Tyson’s sexual advances forced her to quit her job.
She also accused him of attempts to persuade her to have sex, describing him as having “predatory tendencies.”
NEXT READ Music industry
“Media inquiries about toxic work culture prompt Sony to sack Handlin”
Networks to investigate
Tyson presented the popular series ‘Cosmos’ which aired on Fox in 2014.
National Geographic is subsequently scheduled to broadcast a new series in 2019.
As a result of the allegations, the producers of “Cosmos” said in a statement:
“The credo at the heart of ‘Cosmos’ is to follow the evidence wherever it leads. The producers of ‘Cosmos’ can therefore do no less in this situation.”
In addition to his numerous TV shows and public appearances promoting space and science, Tyson is also the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.
#MeToo continuing to have an impact
Industrial advocate Miles Heffernan from Sexual Harassment Claims said the #MeToo movement is continuing to impact the community.
“Victims of harassment are finding their voices and then coming forward to tell their stories,” he said.
“If you’re rich or famous or powerful, look out – people will not put up with harassing or discriminatory behaviour anymore.”
Lifeline 13 11 14
1800RESPECT 1800 737 732
QLife 1800 184 527
Beyond Blue 1300 223 636
MensLine Australia 1300 789 978
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
If you have experienced sexual harassment, we can help.
To connect with us, please follow us on
