McLachlan Quits Rocky Horror

Craig McLachlan has agreed to quit as the lead in the Rocky Horror Show following the publication of allegations today by Fairfax and the ABC....which he denies.

Here is the full statement from the producer.

"The Gordon Frost Organisation (GFO) was shocked to learn of allegations against Craig McLachlan while he was involved in the Rocky Horror Show in 2014. We take these allegations very seriously, and have always endeavoured to prioritise a safe working environment.

In response, we have spoken to Craig and have mutually agreed that it is not appropriate for him to continue in the current production of the show. We will be conducting a full internal investigation and will cooperate fully with authorities.

While we clearly cannot comment on the details of this particular case, sexual assault in any form is unacceptable, and we will work diligently within this industry to support the right of all people to be protected in the workplace, and stand by those who are victims of inappropriate behaviour.

In order to clarify media reports, we wish to state that we were not aware of any details of these allegations until they were published in the media today. We received correspondence from a law firm shortly before Christmas however this contained no details of the claims or the claimants. The response from our lawyers was based on this lack of information and was not in any way directed at the women who have come forward and made these allegations.

We can also confirm that our records show the claimants at no time made any complaint - formal or informal - to the company manager or executive producer of The Rocky Horror Show in 2014. Furthermore no one at GFO recalls any verbal discussion of this nature. It would be distressing to us if anyone within our company was dismissive of sexual assault allegations, and this will form a part of our internal investigation.

 GFO has rigorous rules, guidelines, and procedures in place regarding all work-related issues, including for grievances and OHS generally, and requires all staff, casts and contractors to follow such. GFO places the safety and well-being of its staff, casts, contractors and members of the public as its highest priority at all times, and we trust that our longevity in this industry shows this.

These events will not affect the production across Australia of the Rocky Horror Show, and our excellent cast are looking forward to continuing to bring this production to Australian audiences as per the current schedule."

Actress Christie Whelan-Browne has lashed out on social media at claims she went public for financial reasons.

On twitter she wrote: "To those claiming that I did this for money: A) There are no paid interviews. B) I have paid my own legal fees C) I risked never being hired again. I just don’t understand where you think I’m getting any money?"

Ash Kaye‏ @Mumdeep 7h7 hours ago

Only someone with the most basic level of Intelligence would even consider claiming that. We know why you all came forward and thank you for it xx