Exiting ABC entertainment chief target of alleged sexual harassment probe

ABC pointedly did not deny allegations of inappropriate conduct were involved.

(...) McPherson, who ran ABC's entertainment department for the past six years, and sister studio since last year, resigned abruptly on Tuesday, days before ABC will present its fall programming to television critics.

A source says multiple harassment complaints were made involving the entertainment chief and that the company had been conducting a formal investigation into his behavior for three weeks leading up to his resignation.

Sources said the alleged incidents involved several women, including some executives and on-air talent. The inquiry expanded to include email. A source said an incident at a company retreat, witnessed by more than one staffer, was also part of the inquiry.