Jeffrey Tambor says he can't return to 'Transparent' amid harassment claims

Acclaimed actor says accusations of deliberate assault ‘utterly untrue’ but he cannot see himself continuing in role of Maura Pfefferman due to ‘politicized atmosphere’ on set

Actor Jeffrey Tambor said he doesn’t see how he can return to the Amazon series “Transparent” following two allegations of sexual harassment against him.

In an ambiguous statement Sunday, Tambor referenced what he called a “politicized atmosphere” that has afflicted the set. He also said that the idea that he would deliberately harass anyone is untrue.

“Playing Maura Pfefferman on Transparent has been one of the greatest privileges and creative experiences of my life. What has become clear over the past weeks, however, is that this is no longer the job I signed up for four years ago,” Tambor said in a statement.

“I’ve already made clear my deep regret if any action of mine was ever misinterpreted by anyone as being aggressive, but the idea that I would deliberately harass anyone is simply and utterly untrue. Given the politicized atmosphere that seems to have afflicted our set, I don’t see how I can return to Transparent,” the actor added.

Maura Pfefferman (Jeffrey Tambor) and her TV sister, Bryna (Jenny O’Hara), at the Western Wall in season 4 of ‘Transparent’ (Courtesy ‘Transparent’)

Two women have come forward over the past few weeks to accuse Tambor of sexual harassment: “Transparent” actress Trace Lysette and his former assistant.

Tambor has won two Emmys for portraying Maura Pfefferman in the highly acclaimed show, which is now in its fourth season. Many interpreted his words to mean that he was leaving the show, which has not been confirmed.

Representatives for Amazon did not immediately respond to requests seeking comment.

Tambor is the latest high profile Hollywood figure to be accused of misconduct in a wave that began when dozens of sexual harassment allegations were reported last month against film mogul Harvey Weinstein.