Actor and DJ Tony Okungbowa, who is best known as the DJ Tony of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, has spoken up about his experience on the set. The American-British actor and disc jockey said he experienced toxicity on the set, joining dozens of former employees that claim to have experienced racist comments, while some even accused producers of rampant sexual misconduct.
Taking to his Instagram account on Tuesday, Okungbowa posted a message indicating that he experienced and felt the toxicity of the environment while being a part of the talk show as its resident DJ. Moreover, he wrote that he supports former staffers who have opened up about, allegedly, getting mistreated on set.
In his Instagram post, he admitted that he has been receiving calls asking him about the controversy-plagued talk show, noting that he would like to divulge details about what he experienced during his tenure. Okungbowa, who is currently associated with CBS' Bob Hearts Abishola noted that he was on-air talent from 2003 to 2006, and from 2007 to 2013.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity the show afforded him, Okungbowa admitted that the environment wasn't free from toxicity. Furthermore, he wrote that he supports his former colleagues in their attempt to create a more inclusive and healthier workplace as the show continues to move forward.
Warner Bros. Television remained tight-lipped about Okungbowa's remarks, but representatives of the performers told Entertainment Weekly that he had no further comments on the topic at the time. Neither representatives of Ellen DeGeneres nor the show's representatives agreed to comment on Okungbowa's allegations.
The show's host DeGeneres came under fire from the public following two BuzzFeed News reports about the toxic work environment behind the scene of the popular talk show. These reports cited allegations of racism, intimidation, and even sexual misconduct.
Without addressing a specific complaint, DeGeneres wrote a letter to her staff last week, which was originally revealed by The Hollywood Reporter confirming that they were taking steps together to address the concerns of those associated with the show and correct the issues bothering them.
Everybody Loves Raymond actor Brad Garrett tweeted that it is the host's responsibility to set the tone of her show, noting that it comes from the top. He accused the show of knowing that Ellen mistreated more than just one staffer, claiming it is a matter of common knowledge. Actress Lea Thompson supported Garret, while other celebrities including Katy Perry and Kevin Hart have openly supported DeGeneres.