Jason Derulo accused of sexual harassment by singer Emmaza Gibson – The Hollywood Reporter

emmaza gibson and jason derulo

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Singer Emaza Gibson is suing R&B star Jason Derulo for sexual harassment after she refused to have sex with him and was dropped from her label.

In a complaint filed Thursday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, Gibson alleges that Derulo contacted her in August 2021 to sign her as a solo artist with his Future History label and in November 2021. He stated that they started working together with the promise of collaborating on an album. But she alleges that Mr. Derulo repeatedly pressured her into drinking and having sex with her, and that she had “explicit demands for sex in exchange for success.”

The lawsuit alleges, among other claims, that at one point Derulo told Gibson that if he wanted to succeed in “this business,” he would “need to ingest ‘goat skins and fish scales.'” claims. Sexual rituals, goat sacrifices, goat blood offerings, and cocaine use. “The manner and timing of such statements implied that Derulo was requesting a sexual act,” the lawsuit alleges. [Gibson] Because Derulo serves as her mentor, supervisor, and musical collaborator. ”

Mr. Gibson alleges in his complaint that Mr. Derulo frequently scheduled late-night studio sessions (9 p.m. to 2 a.m.) and repeatedly invited him out for drinks.The lawsuit alleges that Derulo was under “constant pressure.” [Gibson] drink with him anyway [Gibson] She has repeatedly stated that she does not drink alcohol.As a pretext, Derulo would ‘guarantee’ [Gibson] He’ll arrange an Uber to take her home. ”

In another incident, the lawsuit alleges that during a late-night recording session, Derulo again invited Gibson to drink with him. The lawsuit says Gibson “reluctantly” agreed to drink with Derulo, but Derulo was given an “inappropriate amount of alcohol.” “After this session, [Gibson] Although he refused to drink and have sex with Derulo, [Gibson] Derulo was no longer able to travel to and from his studio,” the complaint states.

Derulo eventually stopped responding to Gibson’s messages and was removed from Future History and The Atlantic in September 2022, according to the suit.

In addition to Derulo and Future History, the suit also names Atlantic Records (which has a joint venture with Future History), Derulo’s manager Frank Harris, and RCA Records as defendants.

In an interview with NBC News on Wednesday, Gibson said the entire situation was “very heartbreaking.” “I have anxiety. I’m traumatized. I’ve been dealing with inhumane work conditions. … I’m now at the point where I’m back to zero and have nothing,” Gibson said. .

In a video posted to Instagram Thursday night, Derulo addressed the allegations without going into details of Gibson’s claims.

“I don’t normally comment, but these allegations are completely false and harmful,” Derulo said in a statement posted to his Instagram. “I stand against harassment in all its forms and will continue to support those who follow their dreams.”

He added: “I have always strived to live my life in a way that has a positive impact, which is why I am sitting here in front of all of you who have been deeply offended by these defamatory allegations. ” he added. God bless you. “