Attack claim on the Taika Waititi series

Attack claim on the Taika Waititi series

Allegations of physical violence and coercion have emerged on the set of Kiwi director Taika Waititi's Apple+ series Time bandits.

Charlyne Yi, who plays Judy on the show, has claimed on Instagram that they were “physically attacked by an actor several times, as well as psychologically abused.”

Yi also claimed they were criticized by colleagues, producers and HR, and “forced to quit” the project, which was filmed in New Zealand in 2022 and 2023.

In a second Instagram post on May 15, Yi detailed their claims, without naming anyone in particular.

“My abuser pressed his body against me from behind, to the point that I had to dig my feet into the ground to maintain my position during rehearsals and filming. I tried to push him off me. And he pushed harder and harder down, until I felt my lower back contract, sending sharp pain throughout my body.”

Yi claimed that the actor later “pressed his body on me again, knowing about my injury, and changed the blocking during filming even though it would ruin the continuity”.

Time bandits is based on the 1981 film of the same name.

The series is produced by Paramount Television Studios, with The Conchords' Flight Jermaine Clement serves as executive producer.

Paramount released a statement in light of the allegations, noting: “The safety of our cast and crew is very important to us, and we take all concerns raised with us very seriously.

“At the time of the complaint, Paramount Television Studios conducted a full investigation into the allegations brought to our attention.

“While all investigations are confidential and we cannot comment on the details, additional steps have been taken to address concerns.”