Speaking of sexual harassment charges involving highly rated TV shows that have caused many readers to consult TheSmokingGun.com, Sunday’s New York Times has a story about Amaani Lyle’s lawsuit claiming to have been scandalized by sexually explicit discussion among the scriptwriters of the comedy Friends (see Jul. 31, Jul. 19, Apr. 23). Inevitably, a law professor — in this case Joanna Grossman of Hofstra — makes an appearance to argue that joke-writers for ribald sitcoms should be held to the same standards of workplace decorum as managers of hymnbook stores (more of her views)(Christopher Noxon, “Television Without Pity”, Oct. 17). And more on the case: Harvey Silverglate, “What Would Rachel Say?”, Wall Street Journal, Aug. 4, reprinted at Center for Individual Rights site; (PDF links:) California appellate decision at CIR site; CIR amicus brief.

Filed under: harassment law