The reasoning for Fred Savage getting removed from The Wonder Years reboot has come to light, and none of it’s good.
According to The Hollywood Reporter via Decider, Savage, who starred in the original The Wonder Years series and became an executive producer and director of the reboot, was let go from the series because of sexual assault and verbal harassment allegations.
Women told The Hollywood Reporter that Savage would act one way with actors and executives, but another way with those working under him.
One woman said that she noticed an odd relationship between Savage and another, younger woman within the crew. Allegedly, this younger woman moved in with him and became subject to his controlling ways. Savage also allegedly verbally harassed another woman who was trying to protect the younger woman in the relationship with Savage.
Another woman said she became friends with Savage.
After being wined and dined by him and given expensive gifts, she became afraid of him and alleged that he sexually assaulted her by cornering her in a bathroom, pushing her against a wall, forcefully kissing her and trying to open her pants. She also alleged that he put her hand on his groin.
Savage issued a statement regarding the allegations to The Hollywood Reporter, writing that he has been dismayed at how his conduct was taken by those working on the show.
“Since I was 6 years old, I have worked on hundreds of sets with thousands of people, and have always strived to contribute to an inclusive, safe and supportive work environment. It is devastating to learn that there are co-workers who feel I have fallen short of these goals.”
“While there are some incidents being reported that absolutely did not and could not have happened, any one person who feels hurt or offended by my actions is one person too many. I will work to address and change my behavior that has negatively affected anyone, as nothing in this world is more important to me than being a supportive co-worker, friend, husband, father and person.”
