Paul Schrader, the renowned filmmaker behind such films as Taxi Driver and American Gigolo, has been accused of sexually assaulting his former personal assistant and is being sued for breaching a settlement agreement intended to keep the allegations confidential. The assistant, referred to as Jane Doe in court documents, filed a lawsuit against Schrader and his production company, claiming she was sexually assaulted by Schrader during the promotion of his film Oh, Canada at the Cannes Film Festival last year. When Doe resisted Schrader’s advances, she claims he fired her and later exposed himself to her. The lawsuit seeks to enforce the settlement agreement, which Schrader has since refused to uphold, citing personal reasons.
Schrader’s lawyer, Philip J. Kessler, dismissed the lawsuit as "desperate, opportunistic and frivolous," vehemently denying any sexual relationship or attempt by Schrader to establish one with his former assistant. He also pointed out social media posts by Doe praising her job and Schrader as a mentor, raising questions about the timing and sincerity of her claims. Schrader had previously made public comments critical of diversity efforts in the film industry and the #MeToo movement, which sheds light on the cultural context surrounding these allegations.
The lawsuit highlights the complexities and challenges often faced in cases of alleged harassment and assault, especially when high-profile individuals are involved. It raises important questions about the enforcement of confidential settlements and the imperative of creating a safe and respectful work environment.
