Ousted Grammys CEO alleges 'conflicts of interest' within Academy 'taint the results' of awards

Deborah Dugan.
(Image credit: Bryan Bedder/Getty Images)

The ousted head of the Recording Academy is speaking out about her bombshell claims of harassment and corruption in the organization just days ahead of the Grammys.

Deborah Dugan, former head of the organization that presents the Grammys, spoke to Good Morning America Thursday days after being placed on administrative leave. The Recording Academy said this was due to an allegation of "misconduct" against her, but she came back with a lawsuit alleging retaliation, CNN reports. She claims she raised concerns about "irregularities and conflicts" in the organization and alleged she was sexually harassed by its outside general counsel, Joel Katz. Katz denies the allegation.

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Brendan Morrow

Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.