executive Dave Arrowsmith has reportedly been fired by Netflix bosses over allegations of abusive behaviour and bullying.
The production design chief had been working on a big budget spin-off series for the hit Netflix period drama, but he’s now no longer part of the production.
According to reports, ‘bullying’ has been an issue on set, with claims the team has introduced an anonymous whistleblowing hotline so staff can report any concerns.
It’s said his behaviour ‘crossed the line’ with colleagues.
A source told: ‘There have been several issues on set, and a few crew members ex- pressed concerns about a number of different incidents.’
A Netflix spokesman confirmed to the publication that Arrowsmith isn’t working on the drama anymore, but wouldn’t give further details.
The series is set to air next year, and he had been in charge of sets and aesthetics for the spin-off after working on BBC and ITV productions including and Cold Feet.
The show is set to focus on the early lives of Bridgerton’s main characters, including the likes of Lady Danbury, Violet Bridgerton and Queen Charlotte.
The regal monarch, played by Golda Rousheuvel, will have her own prequel series, focusing on her past, childhood and love life.
We’re not quite used to seeing Queen Charlotte in a romantic, youthful way, as all through the first two seasons her .
‘Many viewers had never known the story of Queen Charlotte before Bridgerton brought her to the world,’ Netflix’s Head of Global TV, Bela Bajaria, said in a statement. ‘I’m thrilled this new series will further expand her story and the world of Bridgerton’.
She added: ‘Shonda [Rhimes] and her team are thoughtfully building out the Bridgerton universe so they can keep delivering for the fans with the same quality and style they love.
‘And by planning and prepping all the upcoming seasons now, we also hope to keep up a pace that will keep even the most insatiable viewers totally fulfilled.’
Metro.co.uk has contacted representatives for Dave Arrowsmith and Bridgerton for comment.
