Ali Abbasi, director of the Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice, is no longer represented by his U.S. agencies following allegations that he groped an A-list actor, according to multiple reports. However, Abbasi maintains that his decision to part ways with his agencies is unrelated to the alleged incident.
In a statement on Saturday, Feb. 22, Abbasi addressed the situation, describing his actions as “an over-familiar gesture — a slap on the rear” and stating that he had “apologized to him on the spot.”
“I fully understand that my action made someone uncomfortable, regardless of my intent, and for that, I am truly sorry,” Abbasi said. “I had spent time with the person concerned on multiple occasions and had reason to think we had a friendly relationship.”
Recounting the moment, he continued, “When I saw him at the Golden Globes party, I was excited to reconnect. I made an over-familiar gesture—a slap on the rear—which I intended as playful and not in any sexual way whatsoever.
I quickly realized I had misjudged the situation. I apologized to him on the spot, and the following day I made sure my apology was reiterated through my representatives.”
Ali Abbasi’s Departure from U.S. Agencies
On Friday, Feb. 21, it was reported that Abbasi had parted ways with both Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and Management 360 following the alleged groping incident. The outlet cited sources claiming that an inebriated Abbasi had groped the actor, who was also represented by CAA.
Ali Abbasi (Photo: Getty Images)
However, in his Feb. 22 statement, Abbasi refuted claims that his departure from these agencies was linked to the incident.
“The suggestion that I was dropped by my representation due to this interaction is false,” he stated. “My decision to part ways was a long-term career decision that was not shaped by short-term motivations.
I believe in taking accountability for my actions; I made a mistake, I apologized, and I have learned a valuable life lesson. I remain grateful for the incredible work of our cast, crew, and supporters on The Apprentice, and I hope the focus stays on their achievements.”
Is The Apprentice Based on Reality?
Sources told Variety that the alleged incident took place at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Deadline reported that as of Jan. 27, Abbasi was solely represented by his U.K.-based team at LARK.
In a previous statement regarding his change in representation, Abbasi stated: “I can confirm that I’ve made the decision to move in a new direction with my career.
I’m grateful for the work CAA and Entertainment 360 have done, particularly their commitment to The Apprentice, which remains a project I’m incredibly proud of. I look forward to announcing my next steps at the appropriate time.”
The Apprentice Gains Awards Season Recognition
Despite the controversy, The Apprentice has been well-received during this awards season, earning both Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for lead actor Sebastian Stan and supporting actor Jeremy Strong.
The film chronicles the early career of Donald Trump (played by Stan) as he is mentored by the ruthless lawyer Roy Cohn (played by Strong).
