Matt Damon Apologizes For Sexual Harassment Remarks: 'I Really Wish I'd Listened'
Actor Matt Damon is taking back what he said in reference to the sexual harassment scandal that has become a worldwide epidemic. The allegations first broke after movie mogul Harvey Weinstein was outed as a sexual predator and his past sexual crimes were bought to light. Since then, actors and actresses who were associated with Weinstein were also brought under scrutiny as many felt that everyone was aware of Weinstein's inappropriate behavior.
Damon stated in an interview with Ocean's 11 co-star George Clooney that there needed to be a "sweeping change" in Hollywood. The actors also stated that they were aware of Weinstein's cheating habits but did not know of his abusive behavior.
Damon's further comments on the matter had landed him in hot water with several actresses, including Rose McGowan and Minnie Driver.
Damon's Remorse
Damon received backlash from his fellow colleagues when he suggested that all sexual assault claims shouldn't be handled the same. The Good Will Hunting actor used comedian Louis C.K. as an example, stating that he should be forgiven since the comedian was "remorseful" for the alleged crimes.
The actor had also stated that he felt there was a "witch hunt" taking place in Hollywood following the creation of the movements Time's Up and #MeToo.
Following his comments, Damon was called out by Driver, McGowan, and Alyssa Milano for his "careless" remarks.
The actor visited the Today Show on Jan. 16 and was questioned by anchor Kathie Lee Gifford about the remarks he made.
"I really wish I'd listened a lot more before I weighed in on this. I don't want to further anybody's pain with anything that I do or say. So for that I am really sorry," Damon said.
The actor, who recently lost his father in December 2017, stated that while he is a good listener, he should have waited to speak on the matter.
"A lot of those women are my dear friends and I love them and respect them and support what they're doing and want to be a part of that change and want to go along for the ride, but I should get in the back seat and close my mouth for a while," Damon continued.
While Damon seeks redemption for his remarks, others still stand against the Time's Up movement. In France, an editorial piece was signed by over 100 women slamming the latest anti-harassment campaign, stating that it "went too far."
