Child actor claims he was fired for reporting a suspected pedophile at Universal Studios
Topics: Film and TV, Social Media, US News, Celebrity, Instagram
Lucy Devine
Featured Image Credit: Instagram/findmychin
Topics: Film and TV, Social Media, US News, Celebrity, Instagram
A child actor has claimed he was fired for reporting a suspected pedophile at Universal Studios.
Steven Anthony Lawrence shared a post on Instagram over the weekend, claiming that he was fired after reporting a suspected pedophile.
He took to social media explaining that while he had hoped a solution could be found, he had refrained from posting anything online.
"I delayed posting this for about a month because I was hoping we could find some sort of amicable solution because I absolutely loved performing and dancing with all you amazing people," Lawrence - who played Even Stevens character Beans alongside Shia LaBeouf and Christy Carlson Romano - wrote.
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He didn't elaborate further on the claims, but added: "It is with a heavy heart I have to announce that my time with Universal Studios has ended because my Boss and her H.R. wants to retaliate for reporting a suspected pedofile around children."
He explained that while he would miss his role, he no longer wanted to be 'associated' with the company.
He said: "While I will truly miss my job I cannot be associated with an organization or people that don't care about performer or guest safety while numerous people continue to get hurt.
"With what I know, I WILL NEVER ALLOW MY KID TO GO TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD.
"Be safe everyone."
Alongside the post, Lawrence shared a photo of his work ID and as well as a Super Mario Toad costume.
Following the allegations, Universal Studios have provided a statement in response to the post, claiming that the concerns had been investigated and reviewed.
They add that following the investigation, they were found to be 'inaccurate'.
A Universal Studios Hollywood spokesperson said in a statement provided to Entertainment Weekly: "We have investigated and reviewed the concerns brought forward by this former employee and they were found to be inaccurate and without merit.
"We take all employee concerns seriously and have established processes for raising any concerns without fear of retaliation.”
Lawrence received hundreds of comments on the post, including ones of support.
One of Lawrence's former co-stars, Christy Carlson Romano, shared support in the comments, writing 'Good for you Steven!' according to TMZ.
Alongside Even Stevens, Lawrence also starred in other shows such as That's So Raven, The Amanda Show and Frasier.
Lawrence also appeared in several other movies including Rebound, Bratz and Archie's Final Project.
UNILAD has reached out to Universal Studios for comment.