In a recent exposé by Vanity Fair, allegations of a toxic workplace environment at Alex Cooper’s media company, the Unwell Network, have come to light. The article, published on June 12, 2023, delves into the dynamics between Cooper, 31, and her husband, Matt Kaplan, 42, alongside claims from over 40 sources, including current and former employees.
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Vanity Fair’s report follows previous revelations from Bloomberg News, which indicated issues within Cooper and Kaplan’s newly formed venture, Trending. This cross-platform initiative emerged from the merger of Kaplan’s ACE Entertainment and Cooper’s Unwell Network. According to insiders, Kaplan was frequently described as aggressive, with reports stating he often yelled at employees, creating what one freelancer termed “the most toxic work environment” they had ever encountered.
The article paints a troubling picture of Kaplan’s conduct within the workplace. Sources allege that he used derogatory language towards employees, employing terms such as “stupid” and “retarded.” Furthermore, some whistle-blowers expressed concerns about Kaplan’s treatment of women in the office, mentioning instances where he made inappropriate comments regarding their personal lives and physical appearances.

Cooper, who recently announced her pregnancy with Kaplan, was reportedly present during some of these episodes but did not intervene during times when her husband expressed anger towards staff members. One account detailed how Kaplan was heard shouting “the nastiest things” at employees, leaving many feeling vulnerable in a tense environment.
In an effort to counteract the public narrative, a source indicated that the Vanity Fair article did not capture positive feedback from individuals who worked with the Unwell Network or had experiences supporting both Cooper and Kaplan. The ongoing discourse surrounding the Unwell Network presents a stark contrast to the vibrant, relatable image promoted through Cooper’s podcast, “Call Her Daddy.”

As the situation unfolded, it was revealed that representatives for Cooper and Kaplan had communicated with Vanity Fair prior to the publication of the article. Reports surfaced that their attorney sent a letter warning the magazine against implying any sexual inappropriate behaviour related to Kaplan. This explicit threat hinted at the couple’s determination to protect their image amidst the brewing controversy.
Despite the claims made in the Vanity Fair piece, it remains essential to consider the motivations behind such reports. The media landscape often thrives on sensationalism, and while the allegations raised warrant attention, context and a well-rounded perspective are critical when assessing any corporate culture.
As Cooper and Kaplan both navigate the fallout from the article, the unfolding narrative illustrates the complexities faced by high-profile figures in the entertainment industry. Their personal and professional lives are becoming increasingly intertwined, and with the impending arrival of their child, they find themselves in a challenging position, balancing their responsibilities as parents with maintaining their business reputation.
With numerous voices contributing to this ongoing story, it remains to be seen how Cooper and Kaplan will address these serious allegations and what measures, if any, they will take to rectify the concerns raised by employees of the Unwell Network. The wider public awaits developments in this story, which not only encompasses the couple’s personal lives but also touches upon the broader issues of workplace conduct and employer accountability in the fiercely competitive media industry.
