Morgan Freeman Apologizes After Harassment Allegations Surface

Yet another Hollywood icon is speaking out about allegations of sexual misconduct in the movie business. This time, though, the actor making the comments is talking about himself… and it happens to be Morgan Freeman, a man who build a career playing wholesome role models, mentoring father figures… even God.

Now, though, Freeman is speaking out in response to a series of allegations made by multiple women who claimed to be victims of “inappropriate behavior” at the hands of the actor. Freeman, while not specifically admitting to any of the allegations, released this statement:

“Anyone who knows me or has worked with me knows I am not someone who would intentionally offend or knowingly make anyone feel uneasy… I apologize to anyone who felt uncomfortable or disrespected — that was never my intent.”

Freeman, who is renowned as much for his rich baritone as for his Oscar-worthy performances in films like Million Dollar Baby, Glory, Driving Miss Daisy, and The Shawshank Redemption, was recently the recipient of the SAG-AFTRA lifetime achievement award. The organization, upon hearing the allegations against Freeman, released a statement to the Associated Press that called the claims, “compelling and devastating…” In addition, the SAG organization has this to say:

“Any accused person has the right to due process, but it is our starting point to believe the courageous voices who come forward to report incidents of harassment… Given Mr. Freeman recently received one of our union’s most prestigious honors recognizing his body of work, we are therefore reviewing what corrective actions may be warranted at this time.”

So far, no “corrective actions” have been taken, but the fact that they are being considered has stunned many. Others have spoken out in support of some of the women making allegations, including a production assistant on “Going in Style” who claims to have been “subjected to unwanted touching and comments on a near-daily basis” during the filming of that movie.

Other women said Freeman “stared” in a way that made them “feel uncomfortable” or that he “frequently commented” on their appearance. A total of 16 people, speaking to CNN, said they either felt harassed or were witnesses of Freeman harassing others.

The same CNN report quoted reporters who claim to have heard Freeman make “inappropriate comments” during press tours. So far, despite the growing number of accusers, aside from the general apology, Freeman has yet to acknowledge any specific allegations.

About the Author:Ronn Torossian is CEO of 5WPR, a leading PR firm.