Desperate Housewives Stars Dispute Nicollette Sheridan's Claims

Desperate Housewives stars Marcia Cross, Teri Hatcher, Felicity Huffman and Eva Longoria Parker are disputing the claims in former co-star Nicollette Sheridan's lawsuit against ABC and series executive producer Marc Cherry.

"It would be irresponsible of us to let the public believe that being a part of this show from its inception has been anything but a blessing. We have no first-hand knowledge of what Nicollette may or may not have experienced, but we would never characterize our set as a hostile environment," the four actresses said in a collective statement. "The friendships and support that Marc Cherry, the cast, the crew and the producers have shared for the past six years have made this a wonderful job that we are grateful for every day."

Desperate Housewives' Nicollette Sheridan suing ABC, Marc Cherry

Tuesday's statement marks the first time Cross, Hatcher and Huffman have spoken publicly about Sheridan's $20 million lawsuit, which includes allegations of wrongful termination, assault and battery, and gender violence. Longoria Parker told On Air with Ryan Seacrest last week that she was "confused" by Sheridan's lawsuit. She also said she believed Cherry, who Sheridan claims assaulted her on set, "probably could not harm a fly."

ABC Studios has said it "investigated similar claims made by Ms. Sheridan last year and found them to be without merit."

Eva Longoria Parker "confused" by Nicollette Sheridan's lawsuit

Hatcher released a separate statement to address the fact that her name was included in Sheridan's lawsuit. Sheridan claimed Cherry told her "I hope Teri Hatcher gets hit by a car and dies" after Hatcher went over his head to speak with ABC executives, according to documents obtained by The Hollywood Reporter. Hatcher's reps say the use of her name in the lawsuit was "inappropriate" and "unauthorized."

"While my adoration and respect for the classic and dynamic chemistry of the characters of Susan and Edie is indelible, I'm honored to stand with Eva, Felicity and Marcia, as a group and clarify that our set environment is nothing less than an amazingly positive experience," Hatcher said. "I have never felt discriminated against. In fact, I have felt heard and respected by Marc and other executives in regards to both my professional and personal needs."