SIMON Cowell is at the heart of racism claims after America’s Got Talent judge Gabrielle Union alleged he told her her style was “too black.”
The axed TV show judge, 47, is set to threaten the Syco boss with legal action after she claimed the music mogul made the comments about both her clothing, and her hairstyle.
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Gabrielle is an American voice artist, actress and author and was a judge on AGT’s 14th season, in 2019, after replacing Spice Girl Mel B.
She was fired in November with suggestions her axe came after she spoke out about racism.
The star has now opened up on what she brands a “toxic” working environment on the show Stateside amid her racism claims.
A source close to Union told The Mail on Sunday of Gabrielle’s complaint, and said she was in talks with Simon’s team and broadcaster NBC, to thrash out a solution.
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“Gabrielle kept complaining about Simon’s total autonomy on set.
“There were no other channels to go through to make a complaint about conditions.
“She was shocked when she was told that her hair and wardrobe was ‘too black’ and she immediately tried to lodge a complaint, but there wasn’t a place to go.”
Meanwhile, dad of one Simon has hired Hollywood litigator Larry Stein to defend his case.
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There has already been a meeting between NBC, Freemantle and Gabrielle which lasted four hours.
It is said to have sparked an investigation “to get a deeper understanding of the facts” according to MailOnline.
While Simon was absent, a representative for Freemantle was present.
In a statement last night, Syco, AGT co-producer Fremantle and NBC said: ‘AGT has a long history of inclusivity and diversity.
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“We are working with Ms Union… to hear more about her concerns, following which we will take whatever next steps may be appropriate.”
AGT Jennifer Hough was also axed after one series on the show.
The Sun Online has gone to Simon’s reps for comment.
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