In a newly released interview, convicted film producer Harvey Weinstein has continued to deny the sexual assault allegations that led to his imprisonment, while admitting to inappropriate advances toward actress Gwyneth Paltrow.
Weinstein, who is currently serving a 16-year sentence in California and awaiting a retrial on separate charges in New York, spoke from prison. He acknowledged making what he termed “a pass” at Paltrow in the 1990s but vehemently denied ever touching her without consent, calling her account a “complete fabrication.”
The interview also addressed allegations from other high-profile accusers. Weinstein confirmed he paid actress Rose McGowan $100,000, a transaction he described at the time as an attempt to conceal it from his then-wife. He labeled accusations from actress Ashley Judd as “ridiculous.”
The retrial in Manhattan stems from a previous conviction that was overturned due to procedural errors. If convicted again, Weinstein could face an additional 25-year sentence.
The interviewer expressed a controversial view of the case, stating a loss of faith in the judicial system and a belief that, while not a “moral man,” Weinstein is not a rapist. These comments are expected to add to the ongoing public debate surrounding the high-profile cases that fueled the MeToo movement.
