Former Hewlett-Packard CEO Mark Hurd Scandal Detailed In Gloria Allred Letter

Former Hewlett-Packard CEO Mark Hurd made repeated and unwanted sexual advances toward actress Jodie Fisher. A brief kiss, some touching, and requests for sex led to Hurd being ousted from his position at HP according to the letter that celebrity attorney Gloria Allred prepared on behalf of the beleaguered Fisher.

Fisher, a 51-year old mother of one, worked for Hurd as a part-time marketing contractor. Her previous career as an actress includes several minor film and television appearances, including a stint on the short-lived reality TV show Age of Love in 2007. Her experiences with Hurd left her feeling “violated, used and disregarded” according to Allred’s letter.

HP’s own investigation challenged Allred’s letter, sent to Hurd in June of 2010, saying that there was no basis for sexual misconduct (except expense inaccuracies regarding dinners with Fisher), and that e-mails sent from Fisher to Hurd during the period that the alleged harassment took place were enthusiastic in nature, writing “great to see you” in one subject line, and “looking forward” to an upcoming event in St. Louis. Such e-mails neglected to mention any discomforts or concerns, and showing nothing to suggest troubled or strained relationship, according to HP.

Nevertheless, Hurd, who is credited for having built HP into the technology powerhouse it is today, resigned suddenly in 2010, and is now the president of tech industry rival Oracle. Fisher dropped the claim of sexual harassment after Hurd paid her an undisclosed amount.

Though it seems certain that something happened, Allred’s letter has been the subject of widespread speculation and controversy. Hurd himself has declined to comment on the letter.

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