Celebrity News

Ex-nanny countersues Rob Lowe, wife in LA

A former nanny for Rob Lowe took part in a dramatic, tear-filled press conference Thursday regarding her lawsuit that accuses the actor's wife of sexual harassment.

Laura Boyce, former nanny to the Lowes, clutched a tissue and openly sobbed as attorney Gloria Allred read a statement explaining the reasons for the suit, which was filed Wednesday in Los Angeles Superior Court. Allred kept her arm around the woman throughout the announcement; at times, Boyce nuzzled her face into the attorney's shoulder.

Boyce is one of three ex-employees the Lowes sued last month, claiming the workers spread lies about the couple and broke confidentiality agreements.

"Their lawsuit appeared to be a pre-emptive strike because the Lowes feared that one or both of their former nannies were about to sue them for sexual harassment and other claims," Allred said.

The attorney also represents former nanny Jessica Gibson, who countersued the couple last month, claiming Rob Lowe sexually harassed her.

Boyce's lawsuit alleges that Lowe's wife, Sheryl, walked around naked in front of her and repeatedly made crude comments about her boyfriend's genitals. It doesn't make any sex allegations against the actor.

"Rob Lowe ... is Ms. Boyce's employer along with his wife," Allred said. "We believe that he and his wife are jointly liable for any sexual harassment in the workplace."