BBC Two adds Mohamed Al Fayed documentary as late Harrods owner faces rape and sexual assault accusations

BBC Two adds Mohamed Al Fayed documentary as late Harrods owner faces rape and sexual assault accusations

As a cinephile who has spent countless hours delving into the complexities of human nature through films, I find myself deeply disturbed and saddened by the revelations presented in Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods. The allegations of sexual abuse against the late Mohamed Al Fayed are not just a reflection of an individual’s depravity but also a mirror to the systemic failures within organizations that allowed such behavior to thrive unchecked.


Attention: This article discusses accounts of rape and sexual assault, which could be upsetting for certain readers.

BBC Two is to air a new documentary tonight (19th September), Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods.

In this 90-minute film, we delve into an examination conducted by the BBC regarding accusations of severe sexual misconduct against the late Mohamed Al Fayed, who was once the proprietor of Harrods.

In the summary of the documentary, it’s stated that the deceased businessman, who passed away at the age of 94 last year, is being accused by his former female employees of multiple instances of rape and attempted rape.

During several of the claimed incidents, Al Fayed held ownership of London’s high-end department store Harrods, the renowned Ritz Paris hotel, and the English football team Fulham FC.

Over twenty employees have testified, among whom thirteen are highlighted in the documentary, claiming they were victims of sexual assault by him. These allegations also include instances where it’s claimed that Harrods concealed such acts of abuse.

This includes five women who have accused Al Fayed of rape.

BBC Two adds Mohamed Al Fayed documentary as late Harrods owner faces rape and sexual assault accusations

The incidents are reported to have taken place in London, Paris, St Tropez and Abu Dhabi.

One of the women asserted, “It was clear I didn’t approve of what occurred. I didn’t agree. I simply wanted it to end,” she stated, regarding the allegation that Fayed assaulted her in his Park Lane residence.

In the 1990s, a woman, identified here as Rachel to maintain confidentiality, held a position as a personal assistant at Harrods.

She tells of being summoned to Fayed’s residence on Park Lane, where he requested her to take a seat on his bed. Subsequently, he placed his hand on her thigh.

I recall a time when I was intimately connected with him, experiencing his physical presence and his vocalizations. It seemed as though I was transported to another place within myself. In essence, he sexually violated me.

On their official site, Harrods expressed deep shock and dismay over the accusations of mistreatment brought against Mohamed Al Fayed.

“This person clearly misused their authority at every opportunity, and we utterly reject such behavior.

Additionally, we understand that during this period, our business unfortunately let down the very individuals who suffered – our employees. For this shortcoming, we extend our heartfelt apologies.

Today’s Harrods is a markedly distinct establishment compared to the one governed by Al Fayed from 1985 to 2010; it is an organization that prioritizes the well-being of its staff, making it central to all decisions made.

Since the emergence of fresh details concerning historical sexual misconduct accusations against Al Fayed in 2023, it’s become crucial for us to expedite claim settlements, minimizing drawn-out court battles for the affected women, which I wholeheartedly support.

“This process is still available for any current or former Harrods employees.

Though we can’t change the past, our commitment is steadfast to act ethically as an organization, guided by our current values. We strive to prevent any recurrence of such behaviors in the future.

Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods is available to watch on BBC iPlayer now.

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2024-09-19 14:04