Harvey Weinstein trial: Disgraced producer believes he can rebuild career in Hollywood

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Kelly Rissman

US News Reporter

Harvey Weinstein has said he believes he can “rebuild” his career in Hollywood if a jury clears him on charges of predatory sexual assault, a criminal sexual act, first-degree rape and third-degree rape.

The disgraced producer made the comments ahead of his trial, which will begin in New York on Monday 6 January.

The charges relate to an allegation that Weinstein raped a woman in a New York hotel room in 2013, and a second woman who accused him of forcibly performing oral sex on her at his Manhattan apartment in 2006.

More than 80 women have alleged abuse by the movie mogul, who denies all claims of non-consensual sexual contact and has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, Weinstein could spend decades in prison.

Discussing his career in the film industry, Weinstein told CNN: “It will take a bit of work to build back to it. If I can get back to doing something good and building places that help heal and comfort others, I intend to do so.”

His former movie studio, The Weinstein Company, which he co-founded with his now-estranged brother, Bob Weinstein, no longer exists after being forced into bankruptcy.

He added: “The past two years have been gruelling and have presented me with a great opportunity for self-reflection.

“I realise now that I was consumed with my work, my company and my drive for success. This caused me to neglect my family, my relationships, and to lash out at the people around me. I have been in rehab since October 2017, and have been involved in a 12-step programme and meditation. I have learned to give up my need for control.”

Weinstein described the “whole process” as “overwhelming” and said he is “working every day to stay level”.

He refused to express any empathy for his accusers or remorse for his alleged abuse.

“While I do have many empathetic opinions regarding many people, I am following the advice of my lawyers on the eve of my trial to not offer any commentary on this,” he said.