In a troubling revelation, two former NBC employees have leveled serious accusations of sexual misconduct against veteran news anchor Tom Brokaw. These allegations have emerged in the context of the ongoing MeToo movement, which has seen numerous high-profile figures exposed for similar behavior.
Allegations from Sarah Mitchell
One of the accusers, Sarah Mitchell, a previous war correspondent for NBC News, recounted her experience to Variety. According to her, back in the 1990s, Brokaw made her feel uncomfortable during an encounter at the Denver bureau. “I was in a conference room when he came in, approached me from behind, and began tickling me along my waist,” she shared. “I was taken aback and noticed a senior editor witnessing the incident, yet no one intervened. It was a humiliating experience.”
Mitchell expressed feelings of helplessness, noting that her position within the company left her feeling vulnerable. “I felt as if I had no power to speak up because of my low status within the organization,” she explained.
The situation allegedly escalated in 1994 when Brokaw showed up at her hotel room unannounced on two separate occasions. “I hardly knew him and was not part of his broadcast,” she recalled. “However, the most influential man at the network reaching out to you demands a response.” During these encounters, she claims Brokaw attempted to coerce her into a romantic relationship, stating, “He forcefully grabbed my neck, trying to kiss me. I was shocked at his strength, yet he appeared sober and in control.”
Mitchell refrained from reporting the incidents, fearing professional repercussions. “Women who raise concerns about such behavior often get labeled as troublemakers, which can derail their careers,” she pointed out.
Brokaw’s Denial
Brokaw has vehemently denied these allegations. He stated through an NBC News spokesperson, “I met with Sarah Mitchell on two occasions, both at her request, over 23 years ago for career advice. Those meetings were brief and appropriate, and I did not make any romantic advances towards her.”
Another Accuser’s Experience
Another former NBC employee, who requested anonymity, recounted a similar encounter with Brokaw. As a 24-year-old production assistant, she alleged that he approached her in the hallway, touched her chest, and invited her to his office under the guise of discussing her career. Brokaw has also denied this claim.
Advocating for Change
Mitchell has chosen to speak out now to highlight the inappropriate culture she experienced at NBC News, where men often objectified female colleagues. In light of the allegations surrounding Matt Lauer, she believes that an internal review by NBC is insufficient, advocating for an independent investigation to address and rectify the workplace culture.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for NBC News to take these allegations seriously and implement necessary measures to ensure a safe and respectful work environment.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, Tom Brokaw has been accused of sexual misconduct by two former NBC staffers, with the allegations reflecting a broader issue within the network’s workplace culture. As the conversation about accountability and respect continues, it’s vital for organizations to foster a safe environment for all employees.