Kelly Ripa Expresses Anger Over Drug Allegations Aimed at Andy Cohen
BollywoodFever, March 29: Kelly Ripa is standing by her longtime friend Andy Cohen amidst allegations that he engaged in cocaine use with Bravo stars, as claimed in a lawsuit by Real Housewives of New York alum Leah McSweeney.
During a discussion with Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Kyle Richards on the March 27 episode of her “Let’s Talk Off Camera” podcast, they touched upon McSweeney’s accusations.
The lawsuit, filed on February 27, also charges Cohen, 55, with fostering a “toxic” work environment and showing favoritism towards those who partied with him.
“I know him, like, off-camera. I know him privately. We’ve traveled together. We’ve gone on vacation together, like, pre-him having kids, you know?” Ripa said. “I’ve never seen a drug around him. It’s like the most… I’m so offended by it. I’m so angry over it.”
Richards, 55, also expressed her dismay, stating she has “only seen him be professional” and has “certainly never seen drugs around – or any of this,” adding that such allegations are dangerous in the current climate and deeply saddening.
Beyond the drug use allegations, McSweeney contended she was pressured to consume alcohol despite her efforts to maintain sobriety during her three seasons on the show, alleging that producers retaliated against her sobriety efforts.
Cohen’s representative denied McSweeney’s claims the day after the lawsuit was filed, telling The Hollywood Reporter, “The claims against Andy are completely false.”
Other Bravo celebrities have defended Cohen. Real Housewives of Miami star Guerdy Abraira attested to Cohen’s hospitality without any drug offers, while Luann de Lesseps spoke on her sobriety experience on the show, denying any force to drink and highlighting that no drug abuse was evident throughout her tenure.
In light of these defenses, McSweeney’s lawyer, Gary Adelman, hinted at forthcoming lawsuits and more individuals ready to come forward. He emphasized that the legal perspective on the issue is what ultimately matters, firmly believing the law will find the described behaviors unacceptable.
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