Award-winning actress Mo’Nique filed a discrimination lawsuit against Netflix at the Los Angeles Superior Court on Thursday (Nov. 14).
The comedian alleges that the streaming giant discriminated against her on the basis of race and gender. The suit states that Netflix severely low-balled her when she was offered a deal to produce a standup comedy special for the company.
“I can confirm that today I filed a pay discrimination lawsuit against Netflix,” she posted on Instagram. “I had a choice to make. I could accept what I felt was pay discrimination or I could stand up for those who came before me and those who will come after me. I chose to stand up. I don’t have any further comment at this time, but I appreciate all of your support and love.”
In January 2018, Netflix offered Mo’Nique $500,000 for her to do the one-hour special, while other comedians, such as Amy Schumer and Ricky Gervais, were being offered millions. When Mo’Nique tried to negotiate, Netflix refused despite being aware of her Oscar win, successful comedy tour and box office draw.
Mo’Nique called for a boycott of the streaming service and went on a press tour exposing the company for its unfair practices and mistreatment.
The lawsuit states, “Netflix’s offer to Mo’Nique perpetuates the drastic wage gap forced upon Black women in America’s workforce.”
Pay breakdowns for comedians Chris Rock, Ellen DeGeneris, Dave Chapelle and other comedians were also included in the suit, enforcing the fact that white people and males were given better deals.
Netflix released a statement regarding the ordeal.
“We care deeply about inclusion, equity, and diversity and take any accusations of discrimination very seriously,” the statement said. “We believe our opening offer to Mo’Nique was fair, which is why we will be fighting this lawsuit.”
Netflix is also being accused of institutional racism and lack of representation in its organization, in addition to pay inequity and violating employment and civil rights law.
Mo’Nique, whose real name is Monique Hicks, previously made accusations that she was blackballed from the entertainment industry shortly after winning her Oscar. She has called out top black entertainers and moguls, such as Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, and Lee Daniels, for low-balling her and making unreasonable demands.
Mo’Nique has an extensive portfolio that includes The Parkers, Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins and Almost Christmas. She won an Academy Award for her role in Precious, but is best known as one of the Queens of Comedy. The 51-year-old has also been featured on several TV specials and documentaries, hosted her own talk show on BET.
