The Nation lead actor says he is stepping away from the series

Conway Kootaney took to his social media page on Friday afternoon to announce he will be stepping away from the series The Nation.

In a Facebook video, the actor/comedian states the reason for his departure is due to producer/director Aaron Sorenson’s refusal to leave the project.

Kootaney states that an Indigenous female was brought in with the hopes of her taking over as director on the series. However, it is alledged that Sorenson would not voluntarily leave the project.

Kootaney does not speak to reasons why Sorenson would not or could not leave voluntarily or otherwise.

The actor/comedian known states the series was, “his first big break” and that he is “walking away from the show”. He says he will be “spending time with family” and prepared his followers for a break from social media.

This comes following allegations made by another actor who was tied to the project, Tonia Jo Hall.

Hall alledged that the director had made sexual advances towards her and engaged in inappropriate behaviour, such as unwanted sexual comments.

Kootaney also apologized to Hall for the alledged treatment she recieved during her time on the series. He also apologized for not initially doing more for Hall, “we need to stand up for our Indigenous sisters”, adding “we can do better”.

It is unclear if The Nation will continue without Kootaney. The Nation’s social media pages have been removed and no statement has been released by the production team.