Legal Filing Accuses the 'Taxi Driver' Screenwriter of Unwanted Sexual Advances and Backtracking on Settlement Deal
Renowned filmmaker and screenwriter Paul Schrader, best known for his work on Taxi Driver and Raging Bull, is facing serious allegations from his former assistant, who accuses him of sexual misconduct and breaching a settlement agreement related to those claims.
According to court documents filed in New York, the 26-year-old woman—referred to as Jane Doe—claims that Schrader forcibly kissed her during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival while they were attending the premiere of his film Oh, Canada. She alleges that the incident occurred in a private setting and that she managed to escape after objecting to the advance.
Shocking Allegations During Cannes Film Festival
Three days following the alleged assault, the complaint states that Schrader invited her to his hotel room, claiming he was seriously ill. Once there, she alleges he exposed himself to her without consent. The woman’s legal team further claims that these incidents were part of a broader pattern of inappropriate behavior throughout her employment, which lasted over three years.
The court filing also references explicit emails allegedly sent by Schrader, in which he acknowledged her discomfort but continued to express romantic and physical interest. One message reportedly read: “I sense you are uncomfortable with my affection for you… I cringe at the thought you fear I might touch you.”
Settlement Agreement Dispute at Center of Court Battle
Doe’s attorneys argue that Schrader and his legal team had reached a confidential settlement to resolve the allegations, but he later withdrew from the agreement after what he reportedly described as a period of “soul-searching.” Despite not signing the document, the woman’s attorneys have filed a motion to enforce the terms, citing a valid and binding agreement under New York contract law. The motion also seeks legal fees and related costs.
Schrader’s attorney, Philip Kessler, responded by stating that no legally enforceable contract exists due to the absence of a signature. He described the breach-of-contract claim as “desperate, opportunistic, and frivolous,” and questioned the credibility of the harassment allegations, pointing to the assistant’s prior participation in social events and her past social media posts, which have since been deleted.
Alleged Pattern of Misconduct and Retaliation
The assistant claims she endured “near-constant inappropriate sexual questions and lewd commentary” during her time working for Schrader. According to the lawsuit, her refusal to engage in romantic or physical interaction ultimately led to her dismissal in September 2024. In the months that followed, her legal team and Schrader’s attorneys allegedly negotiated the confidential settlement—until Schrader decided not to proceed.
Legal experts note that while oral or unsigned agreements can sometimes be enforced under New York contract law, the enforceability depends on the details of the negotiation and any written communications involved.
Schrader’s Acclaimed Career Faces Scrutiny
Paul Schrader, 78, is a prominent figure in American cinema, celebrated for directing First Reformed and penning screenplays for several iconic Martin Scorsese films. He received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival in 2022 and has been a consistent presence on the festival circuit.
As of now, no criminal charges have been filed. The case, however, could have far-reaching consequences for Schrader’s legacy and any future projects in development. Neither Schrader nor his representatives have issued a public statement beyond their legal responses.