Criminal Lawsuit: Showrunner Ed Brubaker Accused of Harassment on Amazon Series

Background of the Series and Production Team

Amazon MGM Studios is preparing to launch a comic book crime drama titled Criminal. The series adapts a well known graphic novel collection and promises a gritty look at underworld investigations. Ed Brubaker, a veteran comic writer and showrunner, was tapped to lead the adaptation. The production is a joint effort with Big Indie Pictures, a company known for independent genre projects. Both studios have emphasized a commitment to inclusive workplaces in recent public statements.

Allegations Filed by Ijaaz Noohu

Ijaaz Noohu, a former production assistant on Criminal, filed a complaint in a federal court that claims a hostile work environment. The complaint alleges repeated instances of sexual harassment, including unwanted comments and advances, as well as racial slurs directed at Noohu. The filing also references religious discrimination, stating that Noohu’s faith was mocked during production meetings.

Noohu seeks unspecified damages from Brubaker, Amazon MGM Studios and Big Indie Pictures. The lawsuit alleges that the defendants failed to address complaints promptly, allowing the alleged behavior to continue unchecked.

Key Points of the Complaint

• Unwelcome sexual remarks made by senior staff.
• Racial epithets used in the presence of crew members.
• Failure of human resources to investigate reported incidents.
• Claims that the work environment caused emotional distress.

Legal Claims and Potential Remedies

The complaint cites violations of federal anti‑discrimination statutes, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Under these statutes, plaintiffs may be entitled to compensatory damages, punitive damages and injunctive relief. The filing also references guidance from the EEOC guidance on sexual harassment, which outlines employer responsibilities to prevent and remediate harassment.

In addition to monetary relief, Noohu’s legal team requests that the studios implement mandatory harassment training, revise reporting procedures, and appoint an independent monitor to oversee compliance.

Relevant Legal Framework

1. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
2. State labor laws that protect employees from hostile work environments.
3. Company policies that promise a safe workplace for all staff.

Industry Reaction and Precedent

The entertainment industry has seen a rise in lawsuits alleging workplace harassment since the #MeToo movement gained momentum. High profile cases have prompted studios to strengthen internal policies. For example, the sexual harassment definition on Cornell Law School’s legal encyclopedia provides a clear benchmark for what constitutes unlawful conduct.

Trade publications such as Variety have reported that studios are now more likely to settle claims quickly to avoid public scrutiny. However, each case remains fact‑specific, and the outcome depends on the evidence presented.

Implications for Amazon MGM Studios and Big Indie Pictures

If the allegations are proven, the studios could face significant financial liability and reputational damage. Amazon MGM Studios has previously highlighted its commitment to diversity and inclusion on its corporate website. A breach of those commitments could trigger internal reviews and external audits.

Big Indie Pictures, as a smaller partner, may also be scrutinized for its oversight mechanisms. The lawsuit could prompt both companies to reexamine how they train crew members, handle complaints, and enforce anti‑harassment policies.

Next Steps in the Litigation

The case is currently in the discovery phase, during which both parties will exchange evidence and take depositions. No court date for a trial has been set. Legal analysts suggest that settlement talks could begin once key documents are reviewed.

Regardless of the eventual outcome, the filing serves as a reminder that production environments are subject to the same workplace standards as any other industry. Studios that fail to act may find themselves facing not only lawsuits but also heightened scrutiny from regulators and the public.

What Viewers Can Expect

While the legal process unfolds, the release schedule for Criminal remains unchanged. Amazon Prime Video continues to list the series as “coming soon,” and promotional material has not been altered. Audiences may see a heightened focus on behind‑the‑scenes safety messages in future marketing campaigns.

For those interested in following the case, court filings are publicly available through the federal docket system. Updates are likely to appear in entertainment news outlets as the story develops.