Leslie Moonves Accused of Trying to Buy Silence of Actress Over Sexual Assault Claim

Leslie Moonves is being accused of trying to buy the silence of both an actress and her manager regarding a sexual assault claim by getting her cast in a CBS series, according to a New York Times report published on Wednesday (November 28).

The former CBS chairman and CEO reportedly tried to find work for actress Bobbie Phillips, as well as the clients of her manager Marv Dauer, which allegedly led CBS to push Leslie out of his position.

CBS is currently in the middle of investigating claims of sexual misconduct against Leslie, expected to end by January 31. His $120 million severance package is still on the line pending that investigation.

The report alleges that Leslie assaulted Bobbie in a meeting in March of 1995, although he reportedly told investigators the sexual encounter was consensual.

“I strongly believe that the sexual encounter with Ms. Phillips more than 20 years ago was consensual,” Leslie said in a statement to The Times.

The report also alleges that Leslie and Bobbie‘s manager Marv discussed ways to keep her quiet by offering acting work, including a role in Blood and Treasure, which she declined.

“If Bobbie talks, I’m finished,” he reportedly told Marv.

“I don’t know how I got in the middle of this. All I know is that I’m a key witness with $120 million at stake. I can’t even imagine a sum of money like that…yes, I did try to get my clients parts. That’s my job. That’s what managers do,” said Marv.

For the full story, head to NYTimes.com.