GABRIELLE UNION: *America’s Got Talent* Working With Ousted Host

NBC is “working” with Gabrielle Union after she claimed there was a toxic work environment at America’s Got Talent.

The actress, along with Julianne Hough, was let go from the show after one season. After the news came reports that Gabrielle complained to producers about a joke made by guest star Jay Leno — and that she was upset about notes that her hair was “too black.”

In a statement, NBC and producers Freemantle and Syco tell Page Six, “We remain committed to ensuring a respectful workplace for all employees and take very seriously any questions about workplace culture. We are working with Ms. Union through her representatives to hear more about her concerns, following which we will take whatever next steps may be appropriate.”

Meanwhile, sources say NBC insiders are “puzzled” by stories about Gabrielle’s negative experience as a judge on the competition series.

One insider said the star had a “productive conversation” with producers after she complained about Leno’s joke and was surprised that it was coming up again.

Also a source tells Page Six the notes on her hair were only about “hair continuity” for both Union and Hough.

The insider says, “A half-dozen AGT employees were asked [about the ‘too black’ notes] and no one had heard this. I would honestly be shocked. Ensuring a safe environment is so important to the show. Anytime someone comes forward and has issues, we take things very seriously.”

The source added that Julianne had no problem when her contract was not renewed earlier this month, though Gabrielle took “immediate umbrage.”

Hot Takes:

  • Whether Jay’s joke was racist or not, it never aired.
  • Why is Gabrielle’s firing an issue but Julianne’s isn’t?
  • Most of the claims were made by her husband, basketball star Dwyane Wade.
  • Who’d have thought that working with Simon Cowell would be terrible?