Hallmark Faces Lawsuit Claiming Discrimination Against ‘Old Talent’
A recent lawsuit against Hallmark Channel has brought to light allegations of age discrimination within the network’s ranks. The lawsuit, filed by Penny Perry, a former top casting director at Hallmark, accuses a senior executive of expressing a desire to replace what was referred to as ‘old talent’, including actors like Holly Robinson Peete and Lacey Chabert. The lawsuit, which includes claims of age discrimination and wrongful termination, was lodged in Los Angeles Superior Court on October 9.
According to documents reviewed by The Independent, Perry, 79, alleged that Lisa Hamilton Daly, Hallmark’s executive vice president of programming, made comments suggesting a need to find replacements for the network’s existing roster of holiday movie talent, stating, “Our leading ladies are aging out. We need to find new talent to take their place.” Hamilton Daly purportedly singled out established actors like Chabert, Peete, and Terry Hatcher as examples of ‘old talent’ that needed to be replaced.
In response to the lawsuit, Hallmark released a statement maintaining that both Lacey Chabert and Holly Robinson Peete are valued within the network and expressing denials of the allegations. However, the company refrained from commenting further on the pending litigation.
Perry’s lawsuit not only accuses the network of age discrimination but also highlights her own alleged experiences of ageist and ableist harassment during her time at Hallmark. Perry claimed that she was wrongfully terminated in April 2024 after being informed that her role was being eliminated and she was asked to accept a lower position with a significant pay cut, leading to her eventual dismissal when she requested more time to consider her options.
Furthermore, Perry alleges in her lawsuit that Hallmark failed to accommodate her disability – she suffers from multiple sclerosis and is legally blind in one eye. She is seeking a trial by jury and pursuing economic damages for loss of past and future earnings as part of her legal action.
Both Chabert and Robinson-Peete have been prominent figures in Hallmark projects over the years, with Chabert currently involved in executive production for the network’s reality series, ‘Celebrations With Lacey Chabert’, and the upcoming film ‘The Christmas Quest’.
The Independent has reached out to Hallmark for comment on the matter.
Insights and Summary:
The lawsuit against Hallmark Channel sheds light on the challenges faced by older actors in the industry and highlights the importance of addressing age discrimination issues. The allegations presented in the lawsuit serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for inclusivity and fair treatment within entertainment organizations. The case also underscores the significance of upholding diversity and respecting the contributions of seasoned professionals in the entertainment industry.