'The Music Man' Star Hugh Jackman Speaks On Scott Rudin Abuse Allegations

Tony winner and Oscar nominee and upcoming The Music Man star Hugh Jackman has responded to producer Scott Rudin's decision to step away from Broadway.

In statement shared on Twitter by Michael Paulson Jackman said,

"I want to say how much I respect and applaud the people that have spoken up about their experience working with Scott Rudin. It takes an enormous amount of courage and strength to stand up and state your truth. This has started a conversation that is long overdue, not just on Broadway, and the entertainment industry, but across all workforce. The most important voice we needed to hear from was Scott Rudin, he has now spoken up and stepped away fromThe Music Man. I hope and pray this is a journey of healing for all the victims and the community. We are currently rebuilding theMusic Man team and are aspiring to create an environment that is not only safe but ensures that everyone is seen, heard, and valued. This is something that is and has always been very important to me."

Rudin's announcement to step away from his Broadway productions comes after members of the Broadway industry called for accountability Karen Olivo was sighted as one of the first to protest the industry silence by saying she would not be returning to Moulin Rouge. Jackman's statement was released a few days after hisThe Music Man co-star, Sutton Foster, also spoke on the allegations. The Music Man, with Jackman as Harold Hill and Foster as Marian Paroo, is slated to begin performances at the Winter Garden Theatre December 20 prior to a February 10, 2022, opening.

Photo: Getty