The Nerdist Releases Official Statement Disavowing Chris Hardwick

In light of Chloe Dykstra’s scathing Medium article, The Nerdist has issued an official statement regarding the allegations against the abusive ex believed to be Chris Hardwick. While Dykstra doesn’t mention Hardwick by name in her post, their very public relationship and her description of her ex as “a mildly successful podcaster to a powerhouse CEO of his own company” has made it easy for most people to connect the alleged dots. Nerdist’s statement and quick removal of Hardwick from their site all but confirms it. Allegedly.

The company’s statement says, “Nerdist prides itself on being an inclusive company made up of a positive, diverse community of people who come together to share, celebrate, and discuss the things we love. That type of behavior is contrary to everything we stand for and believe in, and we absolutely don’t tolerate discrimination, harassment, and other forms of abuse.”

It also follows up with a statement from the Nerdist’s parent company Legendary, which says:

“Chris Hardwick had no operational involvement with Nerdist for the two years preceding the expiration of his contract in December 2017. He no longer has any affiliation with Legendary Digital Networks. The company has removed all reference to Mr. Hardwick even as the original Founder of Nerdist pending further investigation.”

Many former and current Nerdist employees have taken to Twitter to express their disgust at Hardwick’s alleged actions, and to reiterate that his influence and involvement at Nerdist is nearly non-existent following his divestment from the company.

Dykstra herself returned to Twitter to defend the Nerdist employees, saying:

(via Nerdist, image: Nerdist)

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Chelsea Steiner

Chelsea was born and raised in New Orleans, which explains her affinity for cheesy grits and Britney Spears. An pop culture journalist since 2012, her work has appeared on Autostraddle, AfterEllen, and more. Her beats include queer popular culture, film, television, republican clownery, and the unwavering belief that 'The Long Kiss Goodnight' is the greatest movie ever made. She currently resides in sunny Los Angeles, with her husband, 2 sons, and one poorly behaved rescue dog. She is a former roller derby girl and a black belt in Judo, so she is not to be trifled with. She loves the word “Jewess” and wishes more people used it to describe her.

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