Bachelor in Paradise season four will resume filming now that Warner Bros. Television has concluded an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct, according to a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter. While the statement fails to name specific cast members, it does confirm that a video tape of the incident was reviewed and that the tape "does not support any charge of misconduct by a cast member." The tape additionally does not show "that the safety of any cast member was ever in jeopardy."
The full statement is as follows:
As we previously stated, we recently became aware of allegations regarding an incident on the set of Bachelor in Paradise in Mexico. We take all such allegations seriously. The safety, security and well-being of the cast and crew is our number one concern, and we suspended filming so that the allegations could be investigated immediately and thoroughly. Our internal investigation, conducted with the assistance of an outside law firm, has now been completed. Out of respect for the privacy interests of those involved, we do not intend to release the videotape of the incident. We can say, however, that the tape does not support any charge of misconduct by a cast member. Nor does the tape show, contrary to many press reports, that the safety of any cast member was ever in jeopardy. Production on this season of Bachelor in Paradise will be resuming, and we plan to implement certain changes to the show's policies and procedures to enhance and further ensure the safety and security of all participants.
ABC suspended production of the upcoming season of Bachelor in Paradise in Mexico earlier this month around the same time a Los Angeles Times film writer quoted a source who said contestants Corinne Olympios and DeMario Jackson got "extremely drunk" and engaged in sexual activity in a pool. A producer for the show reportedly filed a complaint the next day over what she allegedly witnessed. As previously reported, the cast of Bachelor in Paradise season four was also sent home the same day Warner Bros. Television announced they were launching an investigation.
On June 14, Corinne issued a statement to TMZ: "I am a victim and have spent the last week trying to make sense of what happened on June 4. Although I have little memory of that night, something bad obviously took place, which I understand is why production on the show has now been suspended and a producer on the show has filed a complaint against the production."
DeMario also released a statement later that day (via People): "It's unfortunate that my character and family name has been assassinated this past week with false claims and malicious allegations. I will be taking swift and appropriate legal action until my name is cleared and, per the advice of legal counsel, will be seeking all available remedies entitled to me under the laws."
According to THR, ABC confirmed that the season will still air this summer, although it's unclear if the original airdate of Aug. 8 still stands. "We appreciate the swift and complete investigation by Warner Bros. into allegations of misconduct on the set of Bachelor in Paradise," according to a statement given by a network spokesperson. "Given their results, the series will resume production, and will air this summer on ABC."
This post will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.
