Convicted sex offender Harvey Weinstein has been diagnosed with a form of bone marrow cancer.
According to NBC News, anonymous sources claim that the disgraced film producer is undergoing treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia at a New York penitentiary.
Weinsteins spokesperson Juda Engelmayer refused to confirm or dent the news:
“It is both troubling and unacceptable that such private and confidential health matters have become a subject of public discourse. Out of respect for Mr Weinstein’s privacy, we will offer no further comment.”
Last month, Harvey Weinstein underwent emergency heart surgery, following which his representative confirmed that he was ‘out of danger at the moment.’ This latest medical intervention comes amidst a series of health challenges for the disgraced former producer. He continues to serve his 16-year prison sentence after being convicted on rape charges in California.
In 2020, Harvey Weinstein was convicted in New York of the rape and sexual assault of an actor, as well as forcibly performing a sexual act on a production assistant. These grave offenses led to his sentencing of 23 years in prison, marking a significant moment in the legal proceedings against the former Hollywood movie mogul.
However, in April, the New York State Court of Appeals overturned the 2020 verdict due to a procedural error. A retrial is scheduled to take place in November, although it’s possible that Weinstein’s legal team may request a continuance in light of his health challenges.
A deluge of sexual misconduct accusations against Weinstein in 2017 helped catapult Tarana Burke’s #MeToo movement into the mainstream. Over 80 women came forward with damning allegations that ranged from harassment to rape by Weinstein. Many of his accusers were famous figures like Ashley Judd, Lupita Nyong’o, Angelina Jolie, and Gwyneth Paltrow. Their voices ignited a profound cultural shift, challenging deeply ingrained power dynamics and advocating for accountability and justice.
Though he has failed to prove his case in a court of law, Harvey Weinstein maintains that any sexual relations in question were consensual. His defense stands in stark contrast to the numerous allegations made against him.
Weinstein and his brother Bob founded Miramax Films in 1979. It soon became the leading independent film and television studios in Hollywood. Miramax produced an array of acclaimed feature films, including The Piano (1993), Pulp Fiction (1994), The English Patient (1996), and The Queen (2002). Many of these cinematic works received critical praise and had a significant impact the landscape of modern cinema.
Photos by Deposit Photos.
References
Click here to view the sources used for this article.
- Melas, C. and Reiss, A. (2024, October. 22). Harvey Weinstein diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia, sources say. NBC News.
- Guardian Staff and Agencies. (2024, October 22). Harvey Weinstein diagnosed with cancer – reports. The Guardian.
- Editorial Staff. (2024, April 25) New York Court Overturns Harvey Weinstein’s 2020 Conviction. Narcissistic Abuse Rehab.