Ryan Seacrest denies inappropriate behavior with stylist

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 04: Radio & TV personality Ryan Seacrest attends 102.7 KIIS FM’s Jingle Ball 2015 Presented by Capital One at STAPLES CENTER on December 4, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images for iHeartMedia)

Credit: Rodney Ho

Credit: Rodney Ho

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 04: Radio & TV personality Ryan Seacrest attends 102.7 KIIS FM’s Jingle Ball 2015 Presented by Capital One at STAPLES CENTER on December 4, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images for iHeartMedia)

Posted Sunday, November 19, 2017 by RODNEY HO/rho@ajc.com on his AJC Radio & TV Talk blog

In an attempt to head off an issue at the pass, Ryan Seacrest pre-emptively denied an accusation by an anonymous E! hair stylist hat he acted inappropriately.

"Recently, someone that worked as a wardrobe stylist for me nearly a decade ago at E! News, came forward with a complaint suggesting I behaved inappropriately toward her," said the Dunwoody High School graduate Friday. "If I made her feel anything but respected, I am truly sorry."

Deadline said she was trying to shake him down for money but he declined.

“I dispute these reckless allegations and I plan to cooperate with any corporate inquiries that may result,” the "American Idol" and "Live with Kelly and Ryan" host said in a statement. “I treat all my colleagues with kindness, dignity, and understanding, as this is a principle that’s core to who I am. Throughout my 25 years in the entertainment industry, the majority of my co-workers have been women, and I’ve endeavored to foster a positive work environment of mutual respect and courtesy, as that’s how I believe it should be. I’m distraught that anyone or any situation would call that into question. I’m proud of my workplace reputation, and believe my track record will speak for itself.”

“I’m an advocate for women. I will continue to support their voices,” he said.

Seacrest hosted E! News from 2006 to 2012.