Andy Cohen Refutes Allegations in Lawsuit by ‘RHONY’ Star Leah McSweeney: “Completely False”

Andy Cohen, the renowned host and executive producer of numerous reality TV shows, including “The Real Housewives” franchise, has firmly denied the accusations made against him by former “Real Housewives of New York City” star Leah McSweeney in her recent lawsuit.

In response to the claims, a representative for Cohen clarified, “The claims against Andy are completely false,” as reported by The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday, February 28.

According to court documents obtained by THR, McSweeney’s lawsuit implicates Bravo, NBC/Universal, production company Shed Media U, and producers John Paparazzo, Lisa Shannon, and Darren Ward, in addition to Cohen himself. The lawsuit alleges that the network exploited McSweeney’s struggle with alcoholism deliberately. Furthermore, Cohen is accused of exhibiting favoritism towards cast members who partake in substance use with him, purportedly rewarding them with preferential treatment and favorable editing.

The suit contends that Bravo fostered a toxic workplace culture, pressuring its employees, including McSweeney, to consume alcohol. Despite McSweeney’s efforts to maintain her sobriety, she claims she was coerced into drinking during her three seasons on the show. Moreover, she alleges that producers failed to provide adequate support to aid her in staying sober and retaliated against her when she insisted on maintaining her sobriety.

McSweeney’s legal action details instances where she was allegedly deprived of necessary care for her addiction during filming, particularly when abroad in Thailand. Despite being promised access to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, she asserts that she was discouraged from attending and subjected to mental manipulation for the sake of ratings.

In response to the lawsuit, McSweeney took to social media to share her side of the story, expressing her distress over the alleged toxic workplace culture and the exploitation of vulnerabilities among cast members. She emphasized the importance of her sobriety, asserting her commitment to transparency and her willingness to confront the challenges she faces.

This legal action comes in the wake of similar allegations made by former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Brandi Glanville against Cohen, involving claims of sexual harassment. Cohen has responded to Glanville’s accusations, stating that the incidents were meant as jokes and apologizing for any offense caused.

The unfolding legal battle raises questions about the working conditions within reality TV production and underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in the entertainment industry.