COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio State University has fired the director of its celebrated marching band amid allegations he knew about and ignored "serious cultural issues" including sexual harassment.
Jonathan Waters had led the band since 2012, and served in lesser capacities for a decade. His popular halftime shows drew millions of viewers on YouTube.
Fledgling university President Michael Drake said in a video statement Thursday that a two-month investigation uncovered a "sexualized" culture inside the band and determined Waters knew and failed to stop harassment.
Drake said the band season will go on as usual as the search for a new director begins.
Members of the 225-member band are scheduled to perform this weekend with the Columbus Symphony, in an annual event considered the unofficial start of its season.
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