L.A. Reid Settles Sexual Assault Lawsuit From Former Arista Records Executive, Averting Trial

Grammy-winning music executive L.A. Reid has settled a lawsuit filed by Drew Dixon, a former Arista Records executive, who accused him of sexual assault and retaliation in the early 2000s. The settlement was reached just before jury selection and opening statements were set to begin, with terms remaining undisclosed. Dixon’s lawsuit was brought under the New York Adult Survivors Act, which allowed her to revive claims past the statute of limitations. She alleges Reid digitally penetrated her on two occasions in 2001 and subsequently retaliated against her, hindering her career after she rebuffed his advances.

Dixon previously accused Reid and Russell Simmons of misconduct in 2017, leading to Reid’s departure from Sony’s Epic Records following separate allegations. She claimed her career suffered due to retaliation and resulting health issues. The trial was expected to feature testimony from high-profile figures like John Legend, who had been working with Dixon at Homeschool Records.

The suit detailed ongoing harassment, including demands regarding her appearance and unwanted invitations, as well as professional sabotage such as budget cuts and rejection of her projects. Dixon’s lawyers praised her courage and advocacy for survivors, highlighting her role in advancing the Adult Survivors Act and shifting the power dynamic within the music industry.

(Source：The Hollywood Reporter)