Responding to the announcement that the Ralph Dibny will not be returning to the series, showrunner Eric Wallace pledges commitment to 'bringing permanent change.'
- Jun 9, 2020
AceShowbiz - "The Flash" star Hartley Sawyer has been fired after a social media post with racist and misogynist references recently resurfaced.
The actor, who portrayed Ralph Dibny - aka Elongated Man - on the series for three seasons, will not be back for the upcoming run of shows, according to Warner Bros. TV bosses.
"Hartley Sawyer will not be returning for Season 7 of The Flash," a statement obtained by Deadline reads.
"In regards to Mr. Sawyer’s posts on social media, we do not tolerate derogatory remarks that target any race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, or sexual orientation. Such remarks are antithetical to our values and policies, which strive and evolve to promote a safe, inclusive and productive environment for our workforce."
Sawyer's Twitter account has been taken down, but screenshots of the old posts have been circulating online. All were posted before Sawyer joined "The Flash".
His now-former co-star, Grant Gustin, has been quick to respond to his castmate's departure, sharing showrunner Eric Wallace's official statement, in which he states: "I am committed to bringing permanent change to the work environment here on THE FLASH. Yes, this is a family show. But it's for all families. That includes Black and Brown ones. In order to facilitate this, I will continue to find Black and Brown writers, directors, actors and producers of all genders to help tell FLASH stories."
Gustin added: "I was shocked, saddened and angry when I saw the tweets. Words matter."
