American comedian Louis CK admits to sexual misconduct
Several big names in Hollywood, including producer Harvey Weinstein and Oscar-winner Kevin Spacey have been brought down by a flurry of sexual harassment allegations in recent times. The latest addition to the list is American comedian Louis CK. At least five women have accused him of sexual misconduct. He has responded by admitting that the allegations are true and has apologized for his behavior.
At least 34 Hollywood actresses, including Ashley Judd and Rose McGowan, have accused top film producer Harvey Weinstein of sexual harassment. The allegations led to Weinstein's dismissal from the board of his production company, the Weinstein Company, on October 9. On October 15, he was expelled from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the board behind the Oscars.
Two Oscar-winning actors, a director, and a senior news editor are the latest high-profile figures to be accused of sexual harassment. Actors Kevin Spacey and Dustin Hoffman both issued apologies for alleged sexual misconduct. Meanwhile, six women accused 'Rush Hour' director Brett Ratner of sexual harassment or misconduct. Actor Ben Affleck had earlier apologized for groping an MTV presenter in 2003.
Five comediennes including Dana Min Goodman, Julia Wolov, Rebecca Corry and Abby Schachner; and an anonymous woman made the allegations against Louis CK in a recently published New York Times report. Goodman and Wolov allege that he exposed himself and masturbated before them in 2002. Schachner alleges that she was left "ashamed" after Louis CK masturbated while on the phone with her in 2003.
In a statement, he admitted allegations were true and expressed remorse. He said he learned too late in life that "when you have power over another person, asking them to look at your d**k isn't a question. It's a predicament for them." He also admitted to taking advantage of his standing in the actors' community, which stopped the victims from sharing their stories.
'I Love You Daddy,' his latest movie, which was set for release soon has been scrapped. Meanwhile, his appearance on T'he Late Show with Stephen Colbert' was canceled and HBO announced it would pull his projects from the on-demand service.
