Russell Simmons steps down from his companies after sexual misconduct allegations

Russell Simmons is stepping down from his companies after sexual misconduct allegations.

"I will step aside and commit myself to continuing my personal growth, spiritual learning and above all to listening," Simmons said in a statement.

Six women accused Hollywood director and producer Brett Ratner of sexual misconduct, according to a report in The Los Angeles Times published Nov. 1. The alleged incidents occurred in private homes, at industry events and on movie sets. Among the accusers was actress Natasha Henstridge, who told the Times that Ratner "forced her to perform oral sex."

Ratner, 48, denied the allegations through his attorney, calling them "outrageous" and "derogatory."

On Nov. 19, the newspaper published another report that detailed allegations of sexual misconduct made against Ratner and Russell Simmons, the co-founder of Def Jam Recordings. A woman quoted in the story said Ratner and Simmons, 60, were "in it together."

Ratner and Simmons denied the allegations, with Simmons adding that "abusing women in any way shape or form violates the very core of my being."

Ratner is known for directing the "Rush Hour" film series and "X-Men: The Last Stand."