Salim Akil & Mara Brock Akil’s ‘Love Is ___’ Canceled by OWN Amidst Abuse Allegations
Salim Akil & Mara Brock Akil’s ‘Love Is ___’ Canceled by OWN Amidst Sexual Abuse Allegations
OWN has pulled the plug on Salim Akil and wife Mara Brock Akil’s scripted series, “Love Is__”, according to reports.
The news comes weeks after Salim was sued by a woman named Amber Dixon Brenner. Amber alleged that she had extramarital affair with Salim.
According to sources, pre-production on the second season had begun. However, the network has axed its return, as the narrative was viewed as having been compromised. The series was created by the husband and wife team and was based on the real-life romance of the couple. The series starred Michele Weaver, Will Catlett, Wendy Davis, Idara Victor, Tyrone Brown, Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing, Kadeem Hardison and Clarke Peters.
Sources claim that an inquiry triggered by the lawsuit found no allegations of misconduct on the OWN series or “Black Lightning,” a series that Salim Akil also exec produces.
As previously reported, Amber filed a lawsuit against Salim alleging he was physically, sexually and verbally abusive towards her. She also alleged breach of contract.
In the suit, she alleged that Salim forced her to perform sex acts with him and urinated in her mouth.
Salim has maintained his innocence and released a statement:
These allegations are deeply upsetting – but they are also totally untrue. We will defend Salim to the fullest against the false and offensive claims that a woman with whom he had a past relationship has included in multiple unsubstantiated lawsuits. Salim looks forward to clearing his name and to being able to focus on his work and his family.
Mara has yet to release a statement.
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