Suit: Golden Globes tarnished

LOS ANGELES - A former publicist for the organization that runs the Golden Globes sued the group days before its glitzy awards show, claiming it engages in payola schemes for nominations and awards.

Michael Russell sued the Hollywood Foreign Press Association late Thursday, just three days before the Golden Globes are slated to air Sunday on NBC.

The filing does not list any specific examples in which a studio or producer has paid for a Golden Globes nomination or award.

The lawsuit also alleges the association sells prime spots on the show's red carpet to lesser-known media outlets.

A statement from Ken Sunshine, whose company handles the show's public relations, said the allegations were without merit.

The lawsuit seeks $2 million and alleges breach of contract, defamation and fraud over the association's firing of Russell and his partner after the awards show last year. The complaint states the pair were dismissed after a dispute with association president Philip Berk over a charity and advertising campaign with Chrysler.

NBC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.- AP