A former CNN contributor, Angela Rye, has come forward with allegations of inappropriate behavior against Chris Cuomo, which she claims may have cost her a job at the network. Rye, who regularly appeared as a guest on Cuomo’s “Cuomo Prime Time,” says she was shocked when he responded to a bikini-clad photo she posted on Instagram with a derogatory comment. The incident left her feeling devastated and compromised, and ultimately led to the termination of her contract with CNN.
On New Year’s Day of 2021, Rye posted a picture of herself in a gold sequin bikini, expressing her excitement for the upcoming year. Cuomo allegedly screen-shotted the image and responded, saying, “Happy New Year, tinsel crotch.” Rye was taken aback by the comment and felt completely blindsided. She questioned whether she had somehow brought this upon herself and was deeply hurt by the apparent breach of trust in what she considered a safe space at CNN.
After the bikini comment, Cuomo reached out to Rye offering her exciting new career opportunities. It seemed as though he was trying to make amends for his inappropriate message by extending these opportunities to her. However, when Rye confronted him about his comment, CNN decided to end her contract. Rye now suspects that Cuomo may have had a hand in her termination, leaving her feeling betrayed and unfairly treated.
A Plea to Cuomo
In the premiere episode of her podcast, “Native Land Pod,” Rye tearfully read what seemed to be an open letter to Cuomo. She expressed her disappointment and anger, not just towards him but also towards herself for not speaking up sooner. Rye admitted that she had prioritized her financial well-being and had been afraid to stand up for herself and other women who are often left powerless in such situations. She also revealed that she had cherished their friendship and working relationship, making the whole ordeal even more difficult to bear.
Rye strongly believes that Cuomo played a significant role in the loss of her contract at CNN. She described him as “brutally cold” when her contract was not renewed, suggesting that he may have had a hand in the decision. While she acknowledged that she cannot say for certain if he orchestrated her firing, she firmly believes that this is what transpired.
This is not the first time Cuomo has faced accusations of inappropriate behavior. In a coincidental turn of events, his former ABC News boss, Shelley Ross, penned an op-ed in the New York Times, accusing him of sexual harassment at a party in 2005. According to Ross, Cuomo greeted her with a bear hug and proceeded to grab and squeeze her buttocks. Cuomo responded by stating that the interaction was not sexual in nature and that he had apologized to Ross at the time.
The fallout from Rye’s allegations has raised significant questions about workplace behavior and the abuses of power within the media industry. It serves as a reminder that even those in positions of authority should be held accountable for their actions. Rye’s courage in speaking out against Cuomo sheds light on the challenges faced by women who often feel compelled to remain silent in fear of repercussions. It is crucial for organizations to create safe environments where individuals feel comfortable reporting inappropriate behavior without the fear of losing their livelihood.
Angela Rye’s experience with Chris Cuomo reflects the larger issue of inappropriate behavior and abuse of power within the media industry. Her allegations, along with those of others, serve as a reminder that no one is exempt from accountability, regardless of their position. It is essential for organizations to take such allegations seriously and create a culture that promotes respect, equality, and safety for all employees. Only then can we hope to eradicate such behavior from the workplace and ensure a more inclusive and empowering environment for everyone.