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Phil McGraw sued by former publicist for alleged discrimination
Phil McGraw and his media companies are facing a lawsuit filed by former publicist Jerry Sharell in Los Angeles County Superior Court. Sharell alleges sexual orientation discrimination, wrongful termination, and failure to pay timely wages.
The complaint claims that Sharell was excluded from the company's relocation to Texas because he is openly gay. Sharell also alleges that his employment status was changed to an independent contractor, which resulted in a 30% pay cut and the loss of benefits. Furthermore, the lawsuit describes a workplace environment that became overtly religious, including weekly visits from a pastor and employer-led prayers.
Sharell specifically cites an incident where McGraw allegedly remarked that he was “gayer than a fruit basket and not listening.” McGraw’s attorney, Chip Babcock, has denied all allegations, characterizing them as being “made up out of whole cloth” and stating that the hiatus placed on Sharell was standard practice for a media start-up.
Entities
Chip Babcock · Envoy Media · Jerry Sharell · Merit Street Media · Phil McGraw
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The complaint alleges Sharell's employment arrangement was changed to an independent contractor role, resulting in a 30% pay cut and loss of benefits. www.realitytea.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The lawsuit alleges McGraw made a comment regarding Sharell's sexuality, stating he was “gayer than a fruit basket and not listening.” happymag.tv · www.realitytea.com · freerepublic.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Jerry Sharell filed a lawsuit against Phil McGraw and his companies alleging sexual orientation discrimination, wrongful termination, and failure to pay timely wages. happymag.tv · www.realitytea.com · freerepublic.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Sharell alleges he was excluded from the company's relocation to Texas due to his sexual orientation. happymag.tv · www.realitytea.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Sharell claims the workplace environment became overtly religious, involving weekly visits from a pastor and staff prayers. happymag.tv
- [● 2 SOURCES] Attorney Chip Babcock denied the allegations, stating they are made up and that McGraw treats the LGBTQ+ community with respect. happymag.tv · www.realitytea.com