Catfish has resumed production, having been halted in May after host Nev Schulman was accused of sexual misconduct by a former guest of the show.
An investigation by MTV has seen the network deem the allegations "not credible and without merit". A statement to Deadline read: "Although we never received a formal complaint, MTV and Critical Content immediately engaged an independent third party investigator. The independent investigator found the allegations made in the YouTube videos to be not credible and without merit.”
“Given the results of the investigation, Catfish will resume filming. We take these matters very seriously and are committed to providing a safe working environment.”
Schulman was accused of sexual harassment by Ayissha Morgan, who was on Catfish in 2015, through a YouTube video. Morgan - who identifies as gay - refers to Schulman under the pseudonym "Jack" in the video, alleging that he kept coming onto her and trying to force her to "reevaluate" her sexuality and have sex with him.
In another video posted two days later on YouTube, Morgan alleges that a female production assistant - who she refers to as "Carol" - got her drunk and took advantage of her.
Schulman denied the allegations at the time, stating: "The behaviour described in this video did not happen and I'm fortunate that there are a number of former colleagues who were present during this time period who are willing to speak up with the truth. I have always been transparent about my life and would always take responsibility for my actions - but these claims are false."
Schulman retweeted messages of support for the show's return, himself adding: "Appreciate the support from you and so many others. Excited to get back to work!"
Catfish sees Schulman and co-host Max Joseph investigate potential cases of catfishing, in which people conceal their real identity to conduct online romances. The series is based on the 2010 documentary, which follows Schulman's own experience of catfishing.
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