“The Four” judge and Republic Records Group president Charlie Walk has been accused of sexual harassment by a former employee who published an open letter on her blog detailing her experiences working for him approximately eight years ago.
Tristan Coopersmith, who has since founded the women’s wellness studio Life Lab, wrote on her website that “for a year I shuddered at the idea of being called into your office, where you would stealthily close the door and make lewd comments about my body and share your fantasies of having sex with me.”
When reached for comment on the accusation, a representative for Fox, which airs “The Four,” told TheWrap: “We have only recently learned of these past allegations regarding Mr. Walk. We are currently reviewing this matter and are committed to fostering a safe environment on all of our shows.”
In the letter titled “#MeToo: An Open Letter to Charlie Walk,” Coopersmith went on to say that the music mogul would send her sexual text messages and touch her inappropriately during business dinners.
“Then there was that event at your swank pad when you actually cornered me and pushed me into your bedroom and onto your bed,” said Coopersmith, who was 27 at the time. “The bed you shared with your wife … your wife who was in the room next door. You being drunk and me being 6 inches taller was my saving grace.”
Walk joined the Fox reality series “The Four: Battle For Stardom,” this year, and his extensive professional experience includes a stint as president of Epic Records, a division of Sony Music. It is thought that it was while at Sony that the incidents alleged by Coopersmith took place.
Aspiring to break into the music industry, Coopersmith says Walk told her that she could run her own department one day.
“You promised me the world in my career. You told me I would be one of the top 30 music executives under 30. It’s what I wanted. Cloaked in power, you knew how to get me right where you wanted me. Under your control. Playing your sick games,” she wrote.
Coopersmith said that she walked away from the entertainment world eight years ago. She has since founded Life Lab, which is described as a women’s wellness studio and social club based in Hermosa Beach, Calif.
“I don’t wish ill for you, Charlie Walk,” she said to close out the letter. “Only the possibility of personal awakening, accountability and transformation so that you can use your power for good. I forgive you, Charlie Walk. I hope you can forgive yourself.”
Representatives for Republic Records did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment. Coopersmith also did not immediately respond when contacted by TheWrap.
“The Four” is hosted by Fergie and also features Sean Combs, DJ Khaled and Meghan Trainor as judges.
Republic is home to stars such as Ariana Grande, Hailee Steinfeld, The Weeknd and Drake.