Amazon MGM has officially responded to allegations against 'Criminal' creator Ed Brubaker from a former crew member, calling the accuser an opportunist.
Amazon MGM has publicly responded to allegations of sexual and racial harassment against Ed Brubaker, creator of the upcoming series Criminal. The response follows a lawsuit filed by former production assistant Ijaaz Noohu on September 2, 2026, who claims he faced sustained mistreatment while working on the series.
The studio's lawyers and co-defendants strongly refuted Noohu’s claims, asserting that he is an opportunist rather than a victim. In their statement, they noted, “While Noohu’s allegations must be treated as true on demurrer, the evidence in this case will ultimately and overwhelmingly demonstrate that he is an opportunist, not a victim, and that his claims are meritless.” Noohu's assertion that Brubaker pointed a firearm at him was described by the defendants as "pure invention."
In his 12-page complaint, Noohu alleges he experienced “sustained sexual, racial, national origin, and religious harassment” during his employment on Criminal. Hired in late 2023, Noohu claims his position ended in September 2024. He alleges the workplace created by leadership was toxic and abusive, fostered by those in authority, including Brubaker and other key figures in production.
The timing of the lawsuit has raised questions. Amazon MGM's attorneys indicated that Noohu waited nearly twenty months to file his claims, coinciding with the promotional activities for Criminal. They suggested this timing suggests calculated opportunism rather than legitimate grievances.
Criminal, based on the acclaimed graphic novel series by Brubaker and Sean Phillips, was ordered to series by Prime in January 2024, featuring a star-studded cast that includes Charlie Hunnam, Emilia Clarke, and Luke Evans. Despite the allegations, the project does not yet have a release date. The legal battle surrounding Brubaker has cast a shadow over the series and its promotional efforts.
As Amazon MGM plans a hearing set for October 15 in front of L.A. Superior Court Judge William Fahey, the legal scrutiny may affect how the series is marketed and received prior to its premiere.
In their legal response, Amazon MGM and the other defendants expressed their desire to move forward aggressively, indicating intentions to vigorously defend against the claims. The upcoming demurrer represents a procedural step challenging the merits of Noohu’s allegations based on evidence the defendants believe will demonstrate his claims are unfounded. The examination of evidence will likely significantly impact both the accused and the project's reputation.
The court's decision may clarify future promotional activities surrounding Criminal, potentially influencing public perception of the series and its creators.
The situation surrounding Ed Brubaker and the allegations raised by Ijaaz Noohu highlights ongoing concerns in the entertainment industry regarding workplace conduct and the consequences of allegations. As legal proceedings unfold, attention will be on the hearing in October, which will determine next steps for both Brubaker and the Criminal series. This case may set important precedents for similar allegations in the industry and affect the show’s public reception when it eventually premieres.
For ongoing coverage and developments regarding this story and other entertainment news, visit Deadline.
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