Director Ali Abbasi denies links between his agency split and a groping incident amid The Apprentice’s Oscar buzz.
What Led to Ali Abbasi’s Split From Top U.S. Agencies?
Ali Abbasi, director of Trump biopic The Apprentice, abruptly parted ways with CAA and Management 360 after reports surfaced of a groping incident involving an A-list actor.
But Abbasi insists the split was a “long-term career decision,” unrelated to the alleged misstep.
The move to U.K.-based reps LARK in January, he claims, was strategic: “I… hope the focus stays on [The Apprentice] achievements.”
How Did Abbasi Describe the Controversial “Slap”?
Abbasi admits to a “playful” slap on the actor’s rear at a Golden Globes afterparty — a gesture he now calls a “mistake.”
Though he insists it wasn’t sexual, he apologized immediately and through reps: “I fully understand that my action made someone uncomfortable… I’m truly sorry.”
Sources say alcohol fueled the Chateau Marmont incident, which allegedly left the actor’s team furious.
Why Did the Actor’s Agency Drop Abbasi?
The actor, repped by CAA, reportedly demanded accountability. But Abbasi doubles down: “The suggestion that I was dropped… is false.”
His U.S. agencies cut ties quietly in February, but Abbasi’s team insists his Apprentice buzz (and Oscar nods for stars Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong) remains untarnished… for now.
Can The Apprentice Survive the Scandal?
Despite Abbasi’s firestorm, the film’s awards momentum churns on. Critics praise its unflinching take on young Trump’s rise, anchored by Stan’s transformative performance.
But whispers linger: Will voters separate art from controversy at the Oscars?
What’s Next for Abbasi After the Fallout?
While Abbasi eyes “new directions,” industry insiders question his rebound. Can a director accused of misconduct regain trust? Or will The Apprentice become a cautionary tale about off-screen drama eclipsing on-screen success?
Quick Facts About the Ali Abbasi Controversy
- Agency Shakeup: Dropped by CAA and Management 360 in February.
- Incident Details: Allegedly groped an actor at Chateau Marmont.
- Abbasi’s Defense: Calls it a “playful” slap, apologized twice.
- Apprentice Hype: Earned Golden Globe and Oscar nominations.
- Current Reps: Now with U.K.-based agency LARK since January.