Michael Weatherly is one of the most recognizable faces in television. This is largely due to the fact that he spent over a decade as an integral part of NCIS, which held the title of the world’s most-watched show for several years. It was after 13 seasons that Michael broke his fans’ hearts when he announced that he was leaving the series. Now, ten years after he stepped out of the NCIS universe, Michael is back for its ongoing 24th season, although in a semi-regular capacity.
While Michael Weatherly’s NCIS return has generated a lot of buzz, it is worth mentioning that when he initially left the show and joined Bull, he found himself at the center of major controversy after being accused of sexual harassment.
Eliza Dushku was paid USD 9.5 million after she accused Michael Weatherly of sexual harassment
Eliza Dushku came forward with claims of sexual harassment against Michael Weatherly at the start of their professional relationship. The duo began working together on the CBS primetime drama Bull. According to reports, not long after she started playing a character that had a major three-episode arc and would later be added as a series regular, Michael commented on her appearance. He also allegedly brought up a threesome and made a rape joke in front of other cast and crew members.
After the allegations came to light, Michael Weatherly told the Times that he regretted what he said. He also apologized to Eliza for how he made her feel. He said:
“When Eliza told me that she wasn’t comfortable with my language and attempt at humor, I was mortified to have offended her and immediately apologized. After reflecting on this further, I better understand that what I said was both not funny and not appropriate, and I am sorry and regret the pain this caused Eliza.”
Michael Weatherly’s behavior had indeed left Eliza extremely uncomfortable, leading her to initially confront him on her own. However, shortly after their confrontation, Eliza was shocked to find out that her once-promising character had been suddenly written off the show. The matter came to a halt after Eliza Dushku signed a confidential settlement granting her USD 9.5 million. According to a CBS spokesperson, it was the projected amount that Eliza would have gotten if she had remained a Bull cast member for four seasons. They added:
“The allegations in Ms. Dushku’s claims are an example that, while we remain committed to a culture defined by a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace, our work is far from done.”
Despite the severity of the allegations against Michael Weatherly, his former NCIS co-stars expressed their support for the actor. After the news broke that CBS had paid a large amount to settle the sexual harassment claims against Michael, Pauley Perrette, who played ‘Abby’ on the show, shared a photo of her and the actor.
Alongside it, she wrote, “This man… I love, respect, trust, and I KNOW. TWO decades of friendship and respect. The best. I love you @M_Weatherly. Always and forever.” Meanwhile, Sasha Alexander, who played ‘Caitlin’ on the show, wrote, “I have been in the trenches with my friend @M_Weatherly. Always laughs, true friend & [a heart] as big as they come.”
Women’s activist group Ultraviolet had called for CBS to fire Michael Weatherly. But he remained on the show until it came to an end in 2022 after six seasons.
What are your thoughts on Eliza Dushku’s allegations against Michael Weatherly?
Photo Credit: Michael Weatherly/IG, CBS
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