Roy Price to resign from Amazon: Another Weinstein-like scandal on cards?

Amazon Studios chief Roy Price is to resign from his post due to allegations made by a television producer, accusing him of harassing her on his show.

Roy Price at Amazon Studios
Reuters

After the series of accusations made by Hollywood actress against American Film Producer Harvey Weinstein, it is the turn of Amazon Studios chief Roy Price to resign from his post due to allegations laid by a television producer, accusing him of harassing her on his show.

Amazon Studios representative confirmed Price's departure in less than a week after he applied for an unpaid leave following accusations made by Isha Hackett, the producer of the Amazon drama series "The Man in the High Castle", accusing him of passing lewd remarks and forced advances in 2015.

After the #MeToo campaign that is raising awareness about workplace harassment issues, Amazon Studios took up the issue seriously for further necessary measures.

"I'm pleased Amazon is taking steps to address the issues," Isha Hackett issued a statement on Tuesday, and also added that it is important to create a history of decency and respect in the work culture, by avoiding abuse of power and dehumanisation in work.

However, Price's situation is different from the current one revolving around Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, which involves accusations by more than 30 women.

Recalling the incident, Isha Hackett narrated to the Hollywood Reporter that the executive chief made lewd remarks at her during the promotional tour of Comic-Con at San Diego in 2015 and propositioned her on a cab ride. Hackett rejected his advances, telling him that she is a lesbian with a wife and children.

Price is widely seen as playing a major role in the studio's success. This incident has spoilt his career in the Amazon studios as Amazon fared poorly for its original TV shows in Prime Time Emmy Awards. This year, it is investing US$ 4.5 billion on video content.