Gabrielle Union Was Told Her Hair Was ‘Too Wild’ On ‘AGT’ & Calls Simon Cowell’s Behavior ‘Wildly Problematic’
While it’s been almost a year since her controversial exit as a judge on NBC’s ‘America’s Got Talent (AGT)‘ and subsequent discrimination complaint filed, Gabrielle Union again opens up about experiences on the show; including moments she was told that her hair was “too wild,” plus fellow judge and executive producer Simon Cowell‘s “wildly problematic behavior” exuded on set.
In a new interview with Marie Claire — which arrives days after the network announced they’d reached an agreement regarding Union’s complaint — the actress/host recalls receiving “excessive notes” from producers regarding her appearance, particularly her hair, which included a memo claiming her hairstyles were “too wild,” which was code for “too Black.” Union says, “I should be able to exist however the f**k I want to exist, because if you’re hiring Gabrielle Union for my talent, then my talent is going to come out of my body in every way, shape, and incarnation that I can imagine. You’re getting more bang for your buck the more you allow me to exist as I see fit.”
RELATED: Investigation Into Gabrielle Union’s ‘AGT’ Dismissal Finds ‘No Racial Bias Or Derogatory Remarks’
Additionally, Union dishes on Simon Cowell and his suggests his behavior could be considered racist. When asked whether she considered Cowell a racist, Union explains, “I am one who calls people who continuously exhibit racist behavior racist, but for the super sensitive, I will say he has exhibited wildly problematic behavior.” She continues to reflect on the lack of support received form other Black NBC stars, like Al Roker and Terry Crews, stating, “They will discredit and malign you, and you will never work again.…Being blackballed in this industry is very real.”
As mentioned, NBC recently released a statement, confirming their actions in Union’s complaint; which reportedly includes a payment for Union. In their release, they stated, “NBC Entertainment appreciates the important concerns raised by Gabrielle Union and remains committed to ensuring an inclusive and supportive working environment where people of all backgrounds are treated with respect.”
RELATED: Gabrielle Union Settles With NBC Over ‘America’s Got Talent’ Discrimination Claims