Who Is Van Barnes? Jeffrey Tambor Accused Of Sexual Harassment By Former Assistant

Amazon Studios is investigating sexual harassment claims Wednesday against actor Jeffrey Tambor by his former assistant Van Barnes. Tambor, who has won several awards for his role as Maura Pfefferman on the television drama “Transparent,” has strongly denied the allegations.

“I am aware that a former disgruntled assistant of mine has made a private post implying that I had acted in an improper manner toward her,” Tambor told Deadline. “I adamantly and vehemently reject and deny any and all implication and allegation that I have ever engaged in any improper behavior toward this person or any other person I have ever worked with. I am appalled and distressed by this baseless allegation.”

Barnes is a transgender actor, director and producer, who has appeared on “Transparent,” the television miniseries “This Is Me,” as well as Caitlyn Jenner’s reality series “I Am Cait.” When Tambor accepted an Emmy for his role as Pfefferman in 2015, he thanked “his teachers” and included Barnes.

Barnes’ allegations were reportedly posted on a private Facebook account. Amazon confirmed that the investigation is underway, and it is reportedly in the process of interviewing “Transparent” cast and crew.

The allegations against Tambor come three weeks after Amazon Studios boss Roy Price resigned over sexual harassment accusations.