Renowned costume designer William Ivey Long faces allegations of sexual abuse in a civil lawsuit filed by Court Watson, a former employee of The Lost Colony.
William Ivey Long, a celebrated costume designer known for his work on Broadway shows such as Chicago and Hairspray, is facing allegations of sexual abuse. Court Watson, a set and costume designer who worked with Long on The Lost Colony, has filed a civil suit accusing Long and the Roanoke Island Historical Association (RIHA) of perpetrating and covering up sexual abuse at the theater production. The suit comes just before the expiration of the New York Adult Survivors Act, which allows survivors of sexual abuse to file civil claims beyond the statute of limitations.
Allegations of Abuse and Cover-Up
Watson’s lawsuit echoes the allegations previously reported by NPR in 2021. According to the suit, Watson experienced repeated grooming, sexual harassment, and rape at the hands of Long, with support from Long’s associates and RIHA. The suit claims that these parties worked together to perpetrate and cover up the sexual abuse at The Lost Colony. The allegations include an incident in 2002 where Long allegedly had non-consensual sex with Watson while he was intoxicated.
Legal Response and Past Investigation
Long’s attorney, Pearl Zuchlewski, stated that she was unaware of any developments prior to NPR’s request for comment. In 2021, Zuchlewski said that Long “emphatically denied” all allegations against him. RIHA’s attorneys did not immediately respond to NPR’s requests for comment. In response to the allegations against Long, RIHA conducted its own investigation, which did not corroborate specific allegations but raised concerns about the workplace environment. Long and RIHA mutually agreed to end their association after the allegations came to light in 2020.
Additional Allegations and Lawsuit Support
Watson’s lawsuit includes a claim that in 2008, he encountered Long in a New York City costume shop, where Long allegedly made inappropriate comments and touched Watson without consent. The suit also cites a previous lawsuit filed against RIHA by Mary Elizabeth Stewart, a former production manager at The Lost Colony. Stewart’s suit included allegations of sexual misconduct by Long between 1999 and 2001. While the suit was settled in 2003, no criminal charges were filed in relation to the allegations.
Forcible Touching and Emotional Distress
Watson’s suit also alleges “forcible touching” and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The suit claims that Long’s actions, including sexual assault and humiliation, caused Watson severe anxiety and emotional harm. The suit seeks accountability and aims to create a safe and respectful environment for creative professionals.
Settlement Talks and Public Accountability
According to Watson, he and RIHA had been in settlement talks for months, but the association abruptly ended those discussions a week before the deadline to file civil suits. Watson expressed disappointment in RIHA’s decision to protect Long and emphasized the importance of public accountability. He hopes that his lawsuit will encourage other survivors to come forward and advocate for safe and respectful spaces in the creative industry.
Conclusion:
The civil suit filed by Court Watson against William Ivey Long and the Roanoke Island Historical Association has brought allegations of sexual abuse and cover-up to the forefront of the Broadway community. As the case unfolds, it raises important questions about accountability, workplace culture, and the need for safe environments in the creative industry. The outcome of this lawsuit will not only impact the individuals involved but also have broader implications for the theater community as a whole. It serves as a reminder that no individual, regardless of their status or achievements, is exempt from facing the consequences of their actions.
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