A former production assistant on Amazon's upcoming series "Criminal" has sued showrunner Ed Brubaker, Amazon MGM Studios and production company Big Indie Pictures, alleging a hostile work environment involving sexual and racial harassment, religious discrimination, assault and battery. Ijaaz Noohu claims Brubaker subjected him to repeated inappropriate physical contact and comments, and in one alleged incident pointed a functional firearm at his face and pulled the trigger. The lawsuit, which seeks unspecified damages, also names executive producer Phillip Barnett, accused of discouraging staff from documenting complaints.

Noohu, who was hired by Big Indie in February 2023, alleges Brubaker made comments about his hair and appearance, joked about rape, and mocked him with stereotypes about curry and mathematical aptitude, as well as repeatedly asking whether he supported Hamas. He says he was ultimately banned from the set after challenging the alleged misconduct and was not credited on the show, which is expected to premiere before the end of 2026. Amazon MGM declined to comment, while representatives for Brubaker and Big Indie Pictures did not respond to requests for comment.