Paramount is investigating allegations that Sylvester Stallone allegedly used derogatory language to talk about the extras in “Tulsa King” sources told CNN . The series is produced by Paramount and is available on the studio's streaming service, Paramount+.
The studio is investigating allegations that first surfaced on social media in which Stallone was accused of referring to some performers who worked as supporting actors on the set of the TV series as “ugly,” a “bank of lard” and a “ fat guy with a cane,” according to two sources close to the show.
Stallone was alleged to have been heard telling the “Tulsa King” director, “Bring pretty girls to be around me,” in another social media post.
Both production sources told CNN that no formal complaints were filed against Stallone or the director. Human resources professionals learned of the allegations in social media posts, the individuals said.
Craig Zisk, director and executive producer of the Paramount series, told TMZ that “no such insults were uttered.” A CNN contacted representatives for Stallone and Zisk.
Social media posts detailing the allegations appear to have originated in Facebook groups about extras' experiences on the set of “Tulsa King,” but became public when purported screenshots were shared on the writer's X, formerly known as Twitter. television Julie Benson .
Although she does not work on the production, Benson said she learned of the allegations from a friend who works as a supporting actor on the show.
On it was clearly toxic. An environment I didn’t feel comfortable getting involved in.”
Sources also told CNN that a casting agency fired from the TV show.
A Facebook post on the official page for Locke's company, Catrett Locke Casting, confirmed that she “chose to part ways” with “Tulsa King,” although the post did not specify a reason.
A source close to the production of both seasons of the series told CNN that the producers intended to match the same tone and feeling as the extras featured in the show's first season and that the new actors for the second season were not what the director asked for.
Zisk asked the casting agent to send photos of the extras, the individual added, which caused a disagreement and eventually the casting company's dismissal. Additionally, some background actors were asking to take photos with Stallone on set, this production source added.
The matter is now being investigated through interviews with the cast and crew as production continues, according to both sources familiar with the current situation.
Filming on Season 2 of “Tulsa King” recently began and the investigation is not altering production plans in any way, a source said. Stallone and the director continue working, as planned.
A production source told CNN that Paramount prides itself on having a “fair and respectful workplace.” The other source, also familiar with the investigation, said the matter is being taken seriously to ensure everyone feels safe at work and happy on site.
A CNN reached out to SAG-AFTRA, which represents secondary actors, to ask if the union has been made aware of — or is investigating — any of the allegations surrounding “Tulsa King.”
A representative from CSA, the Casting Society of America, told CNN that casting agents for extras are not included in its membership.
Source: CNN Brasil
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