Over the weekend Andrew Kreisberg, who is showrunner over Arrow, Supergirl, The Flash & Legends of Tomorrow, was added to the long list of powerful people in Hollywood who are being accused of sexual harassment or misconduct. Several staffers from his various shows have made complaints which resulted in him being suspended from his duties. Now that the news has broke, a couple of stars from the DCEU television series’ have begun to speak out.
Melissa Benoist, who stars on Supergirl, took to Twitter to release her statement although she does not mention Kreisberg specifcally. Benoist wrote:
“I am a woman who leads a show that supports equality and feminism, empowerment and fighting for what is right. I have always tried to conduct myself this way personally, as well. Sadly, the show and my career are a part of an industry that doesn’t always mirror these sentiments. This is heartbreaking, and at times makes me feel helpless. I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. But I’m an optimist. I believe lasting change is possible, and when people are mistreated, they should have a safe forum to speak their trust and always be heard. And when people commit crimes or harass others, they should always be held accountable — no matter what industry they work in or how much power they wield. I’ve spoke up about it in the past — publicly and not so publicly — and I’ll continue to do so. All of us should, without fear or shame. We all need to hold ourselves to a higher standard. So this week, I’ll head back to work on Supergirl even more committed to being a part of changing the norm by listening when people speak up, and refusing to accept an environment that is anything less than a safe, respectful and collaborate space.”
Also speaking her two cents is Emily Bett Rickards who stars on Arrow. The actress also doesn’t mention Kreisberg by name but her statement is very pointed and speaks volumes about the situation as a whole. Rickards wrote:
“To the men who committed harassment, who perpetuated rape culture, who turn a “blind eye”, and complain about “reverse sexism”: you are weak and complicit. To the women who found the strength to speak up. To the women who supported one another and to the women finding their voice: You can. You are heroines.”
Warner Bros. Television has launched an investigation into the matter and is following suit like many others have by acting swiftly with initial punishment as they look into the situation further. As of now, Kreisberg or his lawyers have yet to make a statement on the matter.
