The latest reports of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviour reported in the UK entertainment industry, emphasise the unique challenges faced by the sector when dealing with behavioural issues. There are some challenges more prominent than others, particularly based on recent events reported.
- Public in the nature of its business, conducting an investigation in the world of entertainment can be extremely challenging, exacerbated when the allegations involve those with celebrity status. It is important that investigations are conducted independently, balancing response to protect reputation with a fair and objective process.
- The entertainment industry is also a complex structure of various entities, individuals and sponsors. Determining who is responsible for responding to disclosures of harassment and other behavioural issues can significantly hinder the investigative process. Alignment across key stakeholders to ensure timely response to issues that become public is crucial to help contain the crisis and demonstrate the industry takes these types of allegations seriously.
- The entertainment industry is made up of varying contract models, from freelancers to employees, to partners and investors. This can make access to potential witnesses difficult, based on the contracting type and their obligations to an investigation.
- Non-recent or historic cases are more likely to be reported, especially when involving high-profile, and public individuals. It is important for records of disclosures, internal investigations or disciplinary matters to be maintained, in the event allegations against the organisation's handling of cases are also scrutinised.
For further insights into the entertainment industry specifically, read our article on how to best be prepared when investigating misconduct.
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© Copyright 2025. The views expressed herein are those of the author(s) and not necessarily the views of Ankura Consulting Group, LLC., its management, its subsidiaries, its affiliates, or its other professionals. Ankura is not a law firm and cannot provide legal advice.
