Ed Brubaker, showrunner of Amazon's 'Criminal', is sued for sexual and racial harassment. The lawsuit names Amazon and MGM as co-defendants, raising serious allegations.
Ed Brubaker, the showrunner of the highly anticipated series Criminal, is facing a lawsuit stemming from alleged sexual and racial harassment. The complaint, filed in California's Superior Court, involves former production assistant ljaaz Noobu, who claims to have endured a toxic work environment while working on the project produced by Amazon and MGM. The lawsuit was reported by Deadline on September 4, 2026.
In the official filing, Noobu describes a hostile work environment that included sustained harassment based on sexual, racial, national origin, and religious grounds. According to the complaint, Noobu, who identifies as a Sri Lankan American filmmaker with fourteen years in the industry, was subjected to derogatory remarks and inappropriate questions from Brubaker, including comments related to rape and problematic stereotypes linked to his Muslim faith.
The complaint also alleges that Noobu was discouraged from raising concerns and ultimately faced repercussions for doing so, including being removed from the production earlier than expected. Alongside Brubaker, the lawsuit names Amazon Services, MGM, and executive producer Phillip Barnett as defendants, highlighting claims that these entities failed to take reasonable steps to prevent or address the alleged misconduct.
Criminal is based on Brubaker and Sean Phillips' renowned graphic novel series and has been in development for over three years. Officially ordered to series by Prime Video in January 2024, the show remains unreleased, raising questions about how this lawsuit may impact its eventual launch. Notably, the series boasts an impressive cast that includes actors like Charlie Hunnam, Emilia Clarke, and Luke Evans.
The production has drawn significant attention for its narrative, which intertwines various crime stories. However, the recent legal issues may overshadow the project as it moves toward its premiere. Given the serious nature of the allegations presented, the lawsuit could have profound implications for the series and those associated with it.
Representatives for Brubaker, Amazon, and MGM did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the filing of the lawsuit. The absence of a statement from these entities has left questions about their planned course of action regarding the allegations. As developments unfold, how these organizations manage the situation will be scrutinized by both industry professionals and media outlets.
This lawsuit not only spotlights the alleged actions of Brubaker but also raises broader concerns about workplace environments in the entertainment industry, particularly relating to diversity and inclusion. Industry stakeholders have previously emphasized the need for safe and respectful workplaces, and this situation underlines the ongoing challenges that still exist.
The lawsuit against Ed Brubaker is significant as it brings to light serious allegations of harassment within the entertainment industry. With Amazon and MGM also named in the suit, the outcome has the potential to influence the practices of major studios in mitigating workplace harassment claims. This situation will be closely monitored by audiences and industry insiders alike, especially in light of the anticipated release of Criminal.
Given the ongoing nature of these allegations, it remains to be seen how they will affect not just the show but also Brubaker's professional reputation and the working conditions for those in the industry. As the case progresses, more detailed responses and actions from the involved parties will reveal deeper insights into the culture surrounding major productions.
For further updates, refer to the full article on Deadline here.
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