Famed DJ and music producer Paul Oakenfold has fired back at allegations of sexual harassment in a lawsuit filed last week by his former assistant.
“Let me be absolutely clear: I categorically deny any and all claims of improper conduct,” he wrote in a statement shared on social media.
“It is disheartening to see these baseless accusations, which appear to be nothing more than a calculated attempt to tarnish my reputation and extort money.”
According to a lawsuit filed last Friday in Los Angeles, Oakenfold “touched his genitals and then masturbated” in front of a woman who worked for him on four occasions last year – including one time while in the passenger seat of her vehicle. She said the “incidents of masturbation by Oakenfold increased in length and intensity.”
“Oakenfold’s sexual harassment was unwanted and unwelcome by Plaintiff in each and every instance,” reads the lawsuit. “At no point did Plaintiff consent to the aforementioned acts by Oakenfold.”
None of the allegations have been tested in court.
“Respect, integrity, and consent are values I hold dear, and I have always treated everyone with utmost professionalism,” Oakenfold’s statement reads.
“I am committed to fully cooperating with any investigations to clear my name and will exhaust all legal remedies available, including the option to countersue, to protect my reputation and seek justice.”
A renowned trance DJ, Oakenfold has released three studio albums and has remixed tracks for a long list of acts, including Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Madonna, and Adele. He has been nominated for a Grammy three times.
— Paul Oakenfold (@pauloakenfold) June 5, 2023