A local actor and acting school owner has stepped down after allegations of sexual harassment have been made against him.

Michael Coleman was one of three co-owners of SchoolCreative: Institute of the Arts, where he was the artistic director and chief academic officer. As an actor, he played the dwarf Happy on the TV series Once Upon a Time; has appeared on TV series such as Supernatural, Smallville, Fringe, and Millenium; and has done voicework for shows such as Dragonball Z, X-Men, Hello Kitty, and more.  

According to a statement issued by SchoolCreative, the allegations didn't involve anyone at the school and allegedly took place prior to Coleman's involvement with SchoolCreative. SchoolCreative offers education in screen-based areas of acting, screenwriting, photography, animation, and video-game programming and design.

Details about the incidents were not revealed.

The school stated that Coleman voluntarily stepped down from his roles; sold his ownership interest in both SchoolCreative and its affiliated business GO Studios; and "will no longer be on the premises and will no longer be involved in any aspect of the school’s business and operations".

SchoolCreative admissions director Scott Gamble told the Georgia Straight that an internal investigation was conducted a day after they were informed about the allegations. Gamble said that when they spoke with him several times, Coleman repeatedly maintained his innocence and that the allegations are unfounded.

The Georgia Straight is awaiting a response to an inquiry sent to Coleman.