Ariane Zucker Reaches Settlement in Sexual Harassment Case Against ‘Days of Our Lives’ Producer
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A settlement has been reached between Ariane Zucker, a veteran actress on the long-running soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” and Corday Productions, along with former executive producer Albert Alarr, resolving allegations of sexual harassment and workplace retaliation. The terms of the agreement, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Thursday, October 9, remain confidential.
Zucker, 50, who has been a fixture on “Days of Our Lives” since 1998, initially filed suit in February 2024, detailing a pattern of alleged misconduct by Alarr. The lawsuit described a hostile work environment characterized by “severe and pervasive sexual harassment and gender discrimination.”
Allegations of Misconduct
According to the legal complaint, Alarr engaged in repeated unwanted physical contact with Zucker, including hugging and touching. The allegations escalated to include instances where Alarr “intentionally pushed Zucker’s chest against Zucker and made sexually suggestive moans,” alongside a series of inappropriate comments. These actions, Zucker claimed, created a deeply uncomfortable and damaging work environment.
Retaliation Following Allegations
The lawsuit further alleges that Corday Productions and its owner, Ken Korday, retaliated against Zucker after she voiced her concerns about the alleged harassment. This retaliation reportedly took the form of reduced pay and the denial of travel allowances. In June 2023, Zucker’s character was removed from the show, effectively ending her 20-year run. While the production company offered Zucker a contract renewal, it is reported that they did not engage in negotiations regarding a salary adjustment.
Responses from Involved Parties
Robert Batta, Alarr’s lawyer, stated that the settlement was reached simply “to resolve the dispute and move forward,” denying all prior charges. Corday Productions had previously dismissed Zucker’s claims as “unfounded,” asserting that an immediate investigation into Alarr’s conduct was launched, ultimately leading to his resignation. The company also maintained that a pay raise had been offered to Zucker upon contract renewal.
Advocate Praises Zucker’s Courage
Anahita Sedagatpar, Zucker’s lawyer, lauded her client for her bravery in “speaking up for voiceless workers” and for shedding light on what she described as “hidden rules and gender inequality on set.” This case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by individuals navigating workplace harassment and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
“Days of Our Lives,” which debuted in 1965, has become one of the longest-running television series globally. The show transitioned to the streaming platform Peacock in 2022, continuing to attract a substantial viewership. This settlement serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure safe and respectful workplaces within the entertainment industry and beyond.
