Eater New York reported that four women, who were not
identified, accused Batali of touching them inappropriately in a
pattern of behavior that spanned at least two decades. Three
worked for the chef during their careers, according to Eater New
York.
Batali said in a statement emailed by his representative Risa
Heller, "I apologize to the people I have mistreated and hurt.
Although the identities of most of the individuals mentioned in
these stories have not been revealed to me, much of the behavior
described does, in fact, match up with ways I have acted."
"That behavior was wrong and there are no excuses," he said. "I
take full responsibility and am deeply sorry for any pain,
humiliation or discomfort I have caused."
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Reuters could not independently confirm the accusations.
Batali said in the statement that he was stepping away from
day-to-day operations of his businesses as he works to regain
people's trust and respect.
Batali's reputation as a master of seasonal Italian food turned
him into a restaurant executive, television star, cookbook
author and one of the world's most recognizable chefs. He
premiered on Food Network in 1997 on the show "Molto Mario" and
in 2011 helped launch "The Chew" on ABC.
B&B Hospitality Group, which services about 24 restaurants owned
by Batali and other chefs, said in an emailed statement that it
takes such accusations seriously.
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"We have had systematic policies and training about sexual
harassment for over 10 years, including a detailed procedure for
employees to report complaints to senior management," B&B
Hospitality Group said. "All members of management have participated
in these trainings, including Mr. Batali."
"Mr. Batali and we have agreed that he will step away from the
company's operations, including the restaurants, and he has already
done so," the company said in the statement.
The ABC Television Network, a unit of Walt Disney Co, said in a
statement, "We have asked Mario Batali to step away from The Chew
while we review the allegations that have just recently come to our
attention."
"ABC takes matters like this very seriously as we are committed to a
safe work environment. While we are unaware of any type of
inappropriate behavior involving him and anyone affiliated with the
show, we will swiftly address any alleged violations of our
standards of conduct.”
Food Network said in an emailed statement that it was suspending
plans to relaunch "Molto Mario" in light of the accusations.
(Reporting by Ben Klayman in Detroit; Editing by Alden Bentley)
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