Longtime "Days of Our Lives" co-executive producer Albert Alarr has been ousted following accusations he made inappropriate comments, bullied employees, groped female cast members, and fostered a toxic work environment. The decision comes after a nine-week misconduct investigation and a petition signed by more than two dozen cast members calling for his removal. The investigation was launched after a complaint alleging gender disparity in pay and layoffs earlier this year. At least 25 people tied to the show, including former cast member Farah Galfond, supported the petition.

In response to the allegations, Alarr released a statement denying the claims, stating that he has never received any prior complaints in his decades-long career in the industry. He criticized the studios for reversing their initial decision to allow him to continue in his role and accused them of succumbing to a "cynical pressure campaign" to force him out.

The allegations against Alarr include claims of inappropriate comments, physical contact, and creating an uncomfortable work environment. Galfond, who worked on the show from 1999 to 2007, shared her own experience with Alarr, stating that he did not make her feel at ease during a sex scene and pushed her on an issue despite her discomfort.

The news of Alarr's departure was met with support from former cast member Lisa Rinna, who took to social media to express her solidarity with the cast's petition. Rinna, who played Billie Reed on the show, called on the show's executive producer and Sony Pictures Television to "protect your talent" and listen to the allegations made by the cast members.

In response to the allegations and the petition, series executive producer Ken Corday announced Alarr's departure and the appointment of Janet Drucker as his successor. Corday also promised an increased HR presence on set and assured the cast and crew that shooting schedules would remain unchanged.

"Days of Our Lives," which premiered in 1965, is a long-running soap opera that currently airs on NBC's streaming service Peacock. The show has faced significant backlash following the allegations against Alarr, with calls for change in the show's leadership and improved working conditions.