Lena Waithe Defends Aziz Ansari Against Sexual Misconduct Case
Only a select few performers have raised their voices to defend someone who has been accused of sexual harassment or misconduct.
Waithe Defends Ansari
Comedian and writer Lena Waithe broke her silence and revealed why she is standing by her Master of None co-star Aziz Ansari as he faces a sexual misconduct allegation.
Waithe stated to KPCC's The Frame during their episode of the Pasadena, California-based radio show that she believes that Ansari should not be lumped into the same group that society has put Harvey Weinstein, Matt Lauer, and Mario Batali in. She also believes that the scenario is black and white and advised listeners not to ask her to question what side she is on.
She also believes that Ansari's allegations have started a conversation on this societal issue and even added that everyone needs to be re-educated on how to act appropriately at the office.
"We have to create codes of conduct. Those are things we need. Because also I think there's an element of---how do you know if you're breaking a rule if you aren't aware of the rules? Or how do you know what appropriate behavior is if no one's ever communicated to you what behavior is?" said Waithe.
Schumer Speaks Out
Waithe is not the only comedian to speak out regarding the controversial sexual misconduct allegations against Ansari. Amy Schumer talked to veteran journalist Katie Couric about the situation on the former Today anchor's podcast.
The Trainwreck and Snatched actress hoped that the allegation would not impact Ansari's career. Schumer also added that people assume the worst even though he may be innocent.
McHale Takes A Stand
Actor-comedian Joel McHale also joined in the growing chorus of comedians defending Ansari. McHale added that the woman who accused the Bob's Burgers voice actor might have consented to having a sexual encounter with the actor.
"The problem is that people will read just the name and then just the accusation and they don't find out anything more than that. So that's the problem, but it sounds like it was consensual," said McHale.
The Babe Writer
Last month, a woman posted an open letter to the website Babe. The 23-year-old known only as "Grace" stated that Ansari coerced her into having sex with him.
This letter not only shone an unnecessary spotlight on the comedian but many high-profile media women including HLN's Ashleigh Banfield and Samantha Bee who stated that Grace's letter would derail the #MeToo Movement and Time's Up campaign.
