Harvey Weinstein Taking Leave After Sexual Harassment Claims

Longtime Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein is taking a leave of absence from the industry, he announced on Thursday. The decision comes following a New York Times story on Thursday, revealing sexual misconduct by the producer.

Weinstein also issued an apology, he also said he’s suing The New York Times for running the story.

Sexual harassment bombshell

Hollywood iconic producer Harvey Weinstein announced he’s taking a leave of absence from the company that bears his name following allegations of sexual harassment.

Weinstein is best known for co-founding the film company Miramax. He has produced such films as ‘Pulp Fiction’, ‘The English Patient’,’The Hateful Eight’ and ‘Shakespeare in Love’ – for which he won an Oscar.

Weinstein issued a statement on Thursday afternoon, apologizing for his behavior and announcing his leave.

“I came of age in the 60’s and 70’s [sic], when all the rules about behavior and workplaces were different. That was the culture then.

“I have since learned it’s not an excuse, in the office – or out of it. To anyone. I realized some time ago that I needed to be a better person and my interactions with the people I work with have changed,” Weinstein said.

“I appreciate the way I’ve behaved with colleagues in the past has caused a lot of pain, and I sincerely apologize for it. Though I’m trying to do better, I know I have a long way to go. That is my commitment. My journey now will be to learn.”

“I’ve brought on therapists and I plan to take a leave of absence from my company and to deal with this issue head-on. I so respect all women and regret what happened,” he said.

“I hope that my actions will speak louder than words and that one day we will all be able to earn their trust and sit down together with Lisa [his lawyer Lisa Bloom] to learn more.”

Weinstein concluded by saying: “I cannot be more remorseful about the people I hurt and I plan to do right by all of them.”

Suing the New York Times

The New York Times published a story on Thursday, revealing decades of sexual harassment against women, from employees to actress Ashley Judd. Two company officials tell the Times that at least eight women have received settlements from Weinstein over the years.

Hollywood mogul Weinstein, said on Friday he’s suing the New York Times.

“I mean every word of that apology,” he told TheWrap. “The reason I am suing the New York Times is they didn’t give me enough time to respond.”

“We said, ‘What is it, tell us the allegations, we will respond. Harvey is going to be admitting some stuff,’” said Lisa Bloom, Weinstein’s attorney.

“Two days ago, after begging, they gave us a couple dozen allegations that spanned 30 years and a dozen countries. They said we have until 1 pm today. We said ‘Why?’ They never said.”