Cape Town - Grey's Anatomy star Ellen Pompeo has offered her support to Gabrielle Union following reports she was fired from America's Got Talent for voicing her concerns about the "toxic culture" on the NBC show.
The 47-year-old was a first-time judge of the 14th season of the reality competition show. Last week it was announced that Gabrielle would not be returning for the 15th season.
On Tuesday trade publication Variety published an exclusive report claiming that the actress expressed concern over "offensive" incidents that took place on the set.
In a series of tweets on Thursday Ellen voiced her support for Gabrielle.
She wrote: It's unfortunate that @nbc the same network that protected disgusting men like Matt Lauer and punished women for speaking out or not putting up with it...has not changed their practices or culture. I support @itsgabrielleu commitment to speaking up to injustice. It takes courage."
Ellen - who is one of the world's highest-paid TV stars - also called upon women to unite in the workplace.
SEE THE TWEETS HERE:
this is a teaching moment..It’s important..white girls I’m talking to you..whether you truly understand what racial injustice is or not..that you stand with your sisters on the front lines. Don’t cut side deals & don’t not get involved because it isn’t your issue..because it is
— Ellen Pompeo (@EllenPompeo) November 28, 2019
Workplace cultures will continue to be toxic until there is unity and solidarity among all women. If you go for self in these moments you undermine the work we are out here trying to do. Obviously this network feels like they can operate like this and it’s okay.
— Ellen Pompeo (@EllenPompeo) November 28, 2019
Will & Grace star, Debra Messing also voiced her support on Twitter.
environment is inconvenient when there is a huge money making machine that is involved. It is cowardice, greed, and protection of the status quo revealed. Being “hands off,” is inexcusable and reflects a laissez faire attitude toward systemic racism and sexism. @itsgabrielleu
— Debra Messing (@DebraMessing) November 28, 2019
While Gabrielle hasn't officially commented on the reports, she has thanked everyone for their support.
Alongside a photo of her and husband Dwyane Wade on Instagram she wrote: "Lord, you know I'm trying whew and breathe. Support is everything."
SEE THE POST HERE:
Compiled by Leandra Engelbrecht. (Sources:Cover Media, Channel24, Variety, Twitter, Instagram)