Rashida Jones left Toy Story 4 because of Pixar's alleged treatment of women and people of color, and not because of "unwanted advances" from Pixar and Disney animation chief John Lasseter.
It had been claimed that the actress and her writing partner Will McCormack had departed from the project due to recent reports surrounding Lasseter's alleged behavior, but the star has since released a statement to say she left because of "philosophical differences."
She added that her exit was also prompted by a culture of inequality at Pixar.
In a joint statement with McCormack issued to The New York Times, they said: "The breakneck speed at which journalists have been naming the next perpetrator renders some reporting irresponsible.
"We did not leave Pixar because of unwanted advances. That is untrue. We parted ways because of creative and, more importantly, philosophical differences.
"There is so much talent at Pixar, and we remain enormous fans of their films. However, it is also a culture where women and people of color do not have an equal creative voice."
The Times also pointed out that only one out of Pixar's 19 feature films has a credited female director.
Lasseter had been the co-director of Toy Story 4 before stepping down in July, with Josh Cooley taking over as the sole director.
On Tuesday, Lasseter announced that he would be taking a six-month sabbatical after unspecified "missteps" had been brought to his attention.
In a statement, he told staff: "It's been brought to my attention that I have made some of you feel disrespected or uncomfortable.
"I especially want to apologize to anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of an unwanted hug or any other gesture they felt crossed the line in any way, shape, or form. No matter how benign my intent, everyone has the right to set their own boundaries and have them respected."
A Disney spokesperson added the statement (via Vulture): "We are committed to maintaining an environment in which all employees are respected and empowered to do their best work. We appreciate John's candor and sincere apology and fully support his sabbatical."
Harper's Bazaar has reached out for comment from Disney.
Naomi Gordon is news writer mainly covering entertainment news with a focus on celebrity interviews and television.
