Caesars Windsor Hotel and Casino in Ontario canceled the performance of the Canadian pop-rock band Hedley following allegations of sexual misconduct. The band was scheduled to entertain Caesars Windsor’s customers on 11th March. Caesars has apologized to its guests who have already bought tickets, compensating the fans with ticket refunds. The decision was taken after a number of women used social media Twitter to make their allegations of sexual misconduct against the members of the rock group Hedley.
The media agency CBC News reported that in an emailed statement, Jhoan Baluyot, Caesars Windsor’s manager of public relations and communication, confirmed that the gambling venue has taken the decision to cancel the concert at the Colosseum. The casino official did not provide any further information, detailing the reasons behind Caesars Windsor’s decision. Being aware of the rumors that were swirling around the band, it is more than clear that the entertainment venue is trying to keep its name free of mud.
The members of the band explained that the allegation of sexual assault against them are “unsubstantiated”. As it can be recalled, the whole drama started on Twitter in mid-February, after Taylor Bowman unveiled her story about inappropriate behavior involving Hedley band members. The Twitter post of the 21-year-old woman from Manitoba received a vocal support from other women, who shared similar claims. The scandalous allegations against the band did not affect Hedley’s tour plans, even though some of the shows were canceled. Most of Hedley’s fans remained true to the band and showed their support.
Caesars Windsor Prefer to Steer Clear of Scandals
Windsor’s decision was applauded by Lydia Fiorini from the Sexual Assault Crisis Centre in Windsor. She commented that more venues should follow the gambling property’s example and cancel the band’s performance. The casino announced that people, who bought tickets for the Hedley concert at the Caesars Windsor Box Office can get their money back from Monday to Sunday. The only requirement to claim a ticket refund is to bring a proof of purchase. People, who bought their tickets online, will receive their money back automatically using the payment method used to purchase them.
According to unnamed industry observers, Caesars Windsor’s decision to cancel the performance might be also somehow related to Steve Wynn’s case, which made the biggest headlines this year. The casino mogul faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct at his hotel and casino properties. The news about Steve Wynn allegedly harassing and abusing female employees plagued the gambling industry once again, causing a wave of public discontent.
Earlier this month, it was reported that Stephen Wynn stepped down from his position as a Chairman and Chief Executive of Wynn Resorts. This was a significant blow on the company’s reputation and many are currently wondering if the gambling company will manage to recover and continue operating, or it will sink to the bottom.
