When New York’s top court overturned Harvey Weinstein’s Manhattan-based sex crimes conviction in a surprise move Thursday, questions about Weinstein’s reversal of fortune and what comes next for the disgraced movie mogul started to multiply.
Will there be a new trial in New York? Could Weinstein be released on bail while that question plays out? Is Weinstein’s subsequent conviction in California in jeopardy now too?
A spokesperson for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg quickly signaled Thursday that the office hoped to put Weinstein back in front of a jury.
Will there be a new trial in New York? Could Weinstein be released on bail while that question plays out? Is Weinstein’s subsequent conviction in California in jeopardy now too?
A spokesperson for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg quickly signaled Thursday that the office hoped to put Weinstein back in front of a jury.
- 4/26/2024
- by Nancy Dillon
- Rollingstone.com
Harvey Weinstein was already effectively serving a life sentence when he was flown to Los Angeles to face his second trial on rape and sexual assault charges.
That second conviction is now the only thing keeping him in prison, after the New York Court of Appeals overturned his original verdict in a 4-3 ruling on Thursday.
The court’s ruling could now be used to bolster the appeal in California, which, if successful, could set the former Hollywood producer free.
“At the time the jury was deciding the evidence in California, they were working under the assumption and the belief that he had properly been convicted in New York,” said Jennifer Bonjean, the attorney who is handling Weinstein’s California appeal. “Now we know that’s not true.”
The Los Angeles jury was informed of Weinstein’s earlier conviction during the trial, and it also came up during jury selection.
That second conviction is now the only thing keeping him in prison, after the New York Court of Appeals overturned his original verdict in a 4-3 ruling on Thursday.
The court’s ruling could now be used to bolster the appeal in California, which, if successful, could set the former Hollywood producer free.
“At the time the jury was deciding the evidence in California, they were working under the assumption and the belief that he had properly been convicted in New York,” said Jennifer Bonjean, the attorney who is handling Weinstein’s California appeal. “Now we know that’s not true.”
The Los Angeles jury was informed of Weinstein’s earlier conviction during the trial, and it also came up during jury selection.
- 4/25/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
After his second conviction, Harvey Weinstein has hired a new legal team to handle his Los Angeles appeal, after he was found guilty by a jury of sexual assault and rape with a judge sentencing him to 16 years.
Weinstein has hired California-based attorney Michael Freedman, who will work alongside Jennifer Bonjean, the criminal defense attorney who got Bill Cosby’s conviction overturned, and will act as Weinstein’s lead counsel for his West Coast appeal.
Bonjean has become known for defending some of the most high-profile men accused throughout the #MeToo movement. In addition to representing Cosby on his appeal before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, which resulted him being freed from prison, she was R. Kelly’s lead attorney during his criminal trial in Chicago. She also represented Nxivm sex cult leader Keith Raniere.
Bonjean’s firm’s website says she “works tirelessly to reverse the convictions of innocent people wrongly incarcerated.
Weinstein has hired California-based attorney Michael Freedman, who will work alongside Jennifer Bonjean, the criminal defense attorney who got Bill Cosby’s conviction overturned, and will act as Weinstein’s lead counsel for his West Coast appeal.
Bonjean has become known for defending some of the most high-profile men accused throughout the #MeToo movement. In addition to representing Cosby on his appeal before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, which resulted him being freed from prison, she was R. Kelly’s lead attorney during his criminal trial in Chicago. She also represented Nxivm sex cult leader Keith Raniere.
Bonjean’s firm’s website says she “works tirelessly to reverse the convictions of innocent people wrongly incarcerated.
- 5/1/2023
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Harvey Weinstein is looking for some new lawyers to lead his Los Angeles rape verdict appeal.
Earlier today, a Los Angeles Superior Court judge tossed out a trio of remaining sexual assault charges against the incarcerated Pulp Fiction producer after Deputy LA County District Attorney Paul Thompson officially said the office would not retry Weinstein on said charges. Representing Weinstein in court Tuesday with her wheelchair-seated client nearby, Werksman Jackson & Quinn Llp associate Jacqueline Sparagna said the producer is innocent of the charges he was convicted of late last year.
In that vein, the practical decision by the Da not to seek a risky retrial sets the stage for Weinstein to launch a formal appeal of the 16-year sentence he received back on February 23 in the City of Angels.
Weinstein won’t be using the services of Mark Werksman and Alan Jackson in that appeal, I hear.
Declaring his...
Earlier today, a Los Angeles Superior Court judge tossed out a trio of remaining sexual assault charges against the incarcerated Pulp Fiction producer after Deputy LA County District Attorney Paul Thompson officially said the office would not retry Weinstein on said charges. Representing Weinstein in court Tuesday with her wheelchair-seated client nearby, Werksman Jackson & Quinn Llp associate Jacqueline Sparagna said the producer is innocent of the charges he was convicted of late last year.
In that vein, the practical decision by the Da not to seek a risky retrial sets the stage for Weinstein to launch a formal appeal of the 16-year sentence he received back on February 23 in the City of Angels.
Weinstein won’t be using the services of Mark Werksman and Alan Jackson in that appeal, I hear.
Declaring his...
- 3/15/2023
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein will not be retried on the charges of rape and sexual assault that a Los Angeles jury failed to reach a verdict on last year.
According to The Associated Press, prosecutor Paul Thompson announced the decision at a hearing in L.A. on Tuesday, March 14. The judge dismissed the charges and said Weinstein could be returned to New York, where he was previously sentenced to 23 years in prison after being found guilty of similar sexual assault charges.
Weinstein was found guilty of one count of rape and two...
According to The Associated Press, prosecutor Paul Thompson announced the decision at a hearing in L.A. on Tuesday, March 14. The judge dismissed the charges and said Weinstein could be returned to New York, where he was previously sentenced to 23 years in prison after being found guilty of similar sexual assault charges.
Weinstein was found guilty of one count of rape and two...
- 3/14/2023
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to an additional 16 years in prison on Thursday, but his lawyers will continue to fight for the disgraced producer to live a life outside of jail, pledging to appeal his Los Angeles conviction.
Weinstein’s defense, led by Mark Werksman and Alan Jackson, is finalizing their notice for appeal and is expected to file as soon as late Friday or mid-next week, Variety has learned.
Werksman and Jackson did not immediately respond for comment, but at Weinstein’s sentencing, they told the judge that they planned to appeal. When contacted by Variety regarding the appeal, Weinstein’s spokesperson, Juda Engelmayer, provided a statement claiming that Weinstein had an unfair trial.
“This whole process has been alarming and awful for our society,” Engelmayer said. “The media coverage has been driven by a seemingly popular appeal, which I believe has led to biased legal and judicial processes by...
Weinstein’s defense, led by Mark Werksman and Alan Jackson, is finalizing their notice for appeal and is expected to file as soon as late Friday or mid-next week, Variety has learned.
Werksman and Jackson did not immediately respond for comment, but at Weinstein’s sentencing, they told the judge that they planned to appeal. When contacted by Variety regarding the appeal, Weinstein’s spokesperson, Juda Engelmayer, provided a statement claiming that Weinstein had an unfair trial.
“This whole process has been alarming and awful for our society,” Engelmayer said. “The media coverage has been driven by a seemingly popular appeal, which I believe has led to biased legal and judicial processes by...
- 2/24/2023
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Disgraced producer Harvey Weinstein has been sentenced to 16 years, effectively ensuring the former Hollywood mogul and convicted rapist will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Weinstein’s sentencing was held in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday morning, nearly two months after his Los Angeles trial concluded with a jury convicting him on three counts of rape and sexual assault, reports Variety.
Weinstein is already serving a 23-year sentence in New York, after being convicted of rape and sexual assault in that jurisdiction in his 2020 criminal trial.
On Thursday, the judge ordered Weinstein to serve his L.A. sentence consecutively after New York.
Before he was sentenced, Weinstein addressed the court, making one final plea to Judge Lisa B. Lench.
“I maintain that I’m innocent,” Weinstein said.
“This is about money and coming after me,” Weinstein said. “Please don’t sentence me to life in prison. I don’t deserve it.
Weinstein is already serving a 23-year sentence in New York, after being convicted of rape and sexual assault in that jurisdiction in his 2020 criminal trial.
On Thursday, the judge ordered Weinstein to serve his L.A. sentence consecutively after New York.
Before he was sentenced, Weinstein addressed the court, making one final plea to Judge Lisa B. Lench.
“I maintain that I’m innocent,” Weinstein said.
“This is about money and coming after me,” Weinstein said. “Please don’t sentence me to life in prison. I don’t deserve it.
- 2/24/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
Harvey Weinstein made a final plea to the court on Thursday, just before a judge sentenced him to 16 years in prison.
“I maintain that I’m innocent,” he said. “I never raped or sexually assaulted Jane Doe 1. I never knew this woman, and the fact is she doesn’t know me. This is about money and coming after me.”
Weinstein did not stand up to address the court, noting that he has a spinal condition. From his chair, he took aim at a “cottage industry of lawyers” who “put victims on the stand” and then file civil suits.
“I did not rape this woman. I did not see this woman. She perjured herself,” Weinstein said. “This is a made-up story. With all due respect, Jane Doe 1 is an actress and can turn on the tears.”
Weinstein also said that he does not intend to cause harm and is “here to bring joy.
“I maintain that I’m innocent,” he said. “I never raped or sexually assaulted Jane Doe 1. I never knew this woman, and the fact is she doesn’t know me. This is about money and coming after me.”
Weinstein did not stand up to address the court, noting that he has a spinal condition. From his chair, he took aim at a “cottage industry of lawyers” who “put victims on the stand” and then file civil suits.
“I did not rape this woman. I did not see this woman. She perjured herself,” Weinstein said. “This is a made-up story. With all due respect, Jane Doe 1 is an actress and can turn on the tears.”
Weinstein also said that he does not intend to cause harm and is “here to bring joy.
- 2/23/2023
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein has been sentenced to 16 years, effectively ensuring the former Hollywood mogul and convicted rapist will spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Weinstein’s sentencing was held in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday morning, nearly two months after his Los Angeles trial concluded with a jury convicting him on three counts of rape and sexual assault.
Weinstein is already serving a 23-year sentence in New York, after being convicted of rape and sexual assault in that jurisdiction in his 2020 criminal trial. On Thursday, the judge ordered Weinstein to serve his L.A. sentence consecutively after New York.
Before he was sentenced, Weinstein addressed the court, making one final plea to Judge Lisa B. Lench. “I maintain that I’m innocent,” Weinstein said.
“This is about money and coming after me,” Weinstein said. “Please don’t sentence me to life in prison. I don’t deserve it… There...
Weinstein’s sentencing was held in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday morning, nearly two months after his Los Angeles trial concluded with a jury convicting him on three counts of rape and sexual assault.
Weinstein is already serving a 23-year sentence in New York, after being convicted of rape and sexual assault in that jurisdiction in his 2020 criminal trial. On Thursday, the judge ordered Weinstein to serve his L.A. sentence consecutively after New York.
Before he was sentenced, Weinstein addressed the court, making one final plea to Judge Lisa B. Lench. “I maintain that I’m innocent,” Weinstein said.
“This is about money and coming after me,” Weinstein said. “Please don’t sentence me to life in prison. I don’t deserve it… There...
- 2/23/2023
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Los Angeles, Feb 17 (Ians) A judge ruled on Thursday that no additional victims beyond the one woman, whose testimony was the basis for Harvey Weinstein’s conviction, will be able to give victim impact statements at Weinstein’s sentencing next week.
The ruling comes amid calls from attorney Gloria Allred to allow more victims to speak at the sentencing, which she says is the “right of a victim.”
Allred represented three women in Weinstein’s Los Angeles trial, and has argued that all women involved in the case, regardless of the verdict, should be able to speak at the sentencing to let their voice be heard and provide relevant information for the court to consider.
At the Thursday hearing, prosecutors Paul Thompson and Marlene Martinez asked the judge to hear from Allred in court, reports ‘Variety’.
Weinstein was found guilty on three counts of rape and sexual assault last December,...
The ruling comes amid calls from attorney Gloria Allred to allow more victims to speak at the sentencing, which she says is the “right of a victim.”
Allred represented three women in Weinstein’s Los Angeles trial, and has argued that all women involved in the case, regardless of the verdict, should be able to speak at the sentencing to let their voice be heard and provide relevant information for the court to consider.
At the Thursday hearing, prosecutors Paul Thompson and Marlene Martinez asked the judge to hear from Allred in court, reports ‘Variety’.
Weinstein was found guilty on three counts of rape and sexual assault last December,...
- 2/17/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
A judge ruled Thursday that no additional victims — beyond the one woman whose testimony was the basis for Harvey Weinstein’s conviction — will be able to give victim impact statements at Weinstein’s sentencing next week.
The ruling comes amid calls from attorney Gloria Allred to allow more victims to speak at the sentencing, which she says is the “right of a victim.” Allred represented three women in Weinstein’s Los Angeles trial, and has argued that all women involved in the case, regardless of the verdict, should be able to speak at the sentencing to let their voice be heard and provide relevant information for the court to consider. At the Thursday hearing, prosecutors Paul Thompson and Marlene Martinez asked the judge to hear from Allred in court.
Weinstein was found guilty on three counts of rape and sexual assault last December, after a two-month trial in Los Angeles.
The ruling comes amid calls from attorney Gloria Allred to allow more victims to speak at the sentencing, which she says is the “right of a victim.” Allred represented three women in Weinstein’s Los Angeles trial, and has argued that all women involved in the case, regardless of the verdict, should be able to speak at the sentencing to let their voice be heard and provide relevant information for the court to consider. At the Thursday hearing, prosecutors Paul Thompson and Marlene Martinez asked the judge to hear from Allred in court.
Weinstein was found guilty on three counts of rape and sexual assault last December, after a two-month trial in Los Angeles.
- 2/16/2023
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Updated with statement from Weinstein spokesperson: Just weeks before Harvey Weinstein could discover his sentencing fate from the mixed verdict of his Los Angeles rape trial, the woman at the center of the case filed a rape lawsuit of her own today.
A former model-actress whom Weinstein identified as Jane Doe #1 alleges sexual battery, false imprisonment, negligence and intentional infliction of emotional distress over an alleged February 2013 sexual assault in her Beverly Hills hotel room. She is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages. Read the lawsuit here.
Weinstein’s criminal case attorney, Mark Werksman, told jurors in the criminal case trial that Jane Doe #1 “was not a woman who was alone and vulnerable and cut off from the world,” noting that she let his client into her hotel room at Mr. C Beverly Hills and had a cell phone and the hotel room phone at her disposal.
The plaintiff was...
A former model-actress whom Weinstein identified as Jane Doe #1 alleges sexual battery, false imprisonment, negligence and intentional infliction of emotional distress over an alleged February 2013 sexual assault in her Beverly Hills hotel room. She is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages. Read the lawsuit here.
Weinstein’s criminal case attorney, Mark Werksman, told jurors in the criminal case trial that Jane Doe #1 “was not a woman who was alone and vulnerable and cut off from the world,” noting that she let his client into her hotel room at Mr. C Beverly Hills and had a cell phone and the hotel room phone at her disposal.
The plaintiff was...
- 2/9/2023
- by Dominic Patten and Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein’s lawyers filed a request on Tuesday for a new trial, over a month after the disgraced producer was convicted on rape and sexual assault charges in Los Angeles.
Variety, which obtained the filing, notes that Weinstein’s attorneys have requested for the court to “reconsider its ruling,” stating in their new filing that they were precluded from showing evidence to the jury that they claim could’ve shaken the first Jane Doe witness’ credibility and impacted jurors’ guilty conviction.
Weinstein, 70, was due to be sentenced earlier in...
Variety, which obtained the filing, notes that Weinstein’s attorneys have requested for the court to “reconsider its ruling,” stating in their new filing that they were precluded from showing evidence to the jury that they claim could’ve shaken the first Jane Doe witness’ credibility and impacted jurors’ guilty conviction.
Weinstein, 70, was due to be sentenced earlier in...
- 2/1/2023
- by Nancy Dillon
- Rollingstone.com
Harvey Weinstein’s legal team is requesting a new trial with a new jury, after the former Hollywood producer was found guilty of rape and sexual assault during his L.A. trial late last year.
Weinstein’s attorneys filed their motion for a new trial on Tuesday afternoon in Los Angeles to Judge Lisa B. Lench, who presided over the trial, and deputy district attorneys Paul Thompson and Marlene Martinez, who prosecuted the case.
The matter will be heard in court on Feb. 23, which is Weinstein’s sentencing date.
Weinstein — who is already serving a 23-year sentence in New York after being found guilty of rape and sexual assault in 2020 — was convicted on three charges of rape and sexual assault in Dec. 2022. The jury, however, was not able to reach an unanimous decision on three other counts, and ended the two-month trial with split verdict. The jurors also acquitted him...
Weinstein’s attorneys filed their motion for a new trial on Tuesday afternoon in Los Angeles to Judge Lisa B. Lench, who presided over the trial, and deputy district attorneys Paul Thompson and Marlene Martinez, who prosecuted the case.
The matter will be heard in court on Feb. 23, which is Weinstein’s sentencing date.
Weinstein — who is already serving a 23-year sentence in New York after being found guilty of rape and sexual assault in 2020 — was convicted on three charges of rape and sexual assault in Dec. 2022. The jury, however, was not able to reach an unanimous decision on three other counts, and ended the two-month trial with split verdict. The jurors also acquitted him...
- 1/31/2023
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Sentencing in the Los Angeles rape trial of Harvey Weinstein was postponed Monday, as defense lawyers were granted a continuance after indicating that they plan seek a new trial.
Judge Lisa Lench granted the request by defense attorney Mark Werksman at the hearing that was set when the disgraced producer was convicted last month on three of seven counts. Lench said she had received the request “to continue for the purpose of filing a new trial motion.”
Lench gave Werksman until Jan. 31 to file for a new trial, and the prosecution will have until Feb. 14 to respond. A new sentencing hearing was then set for Feb. 23, which will go forward unless a new trial is granted.
Weinstein was in court in a wheelchair, wearing his brown LA County prison outfit. After the hearing was over, Werksman said he wasn’t ready to discuss the reasons for the new-trial request, but...
Judge Lisa Lench granted the request by defense attorney Mark Werksman at the hearing that was set when the disgraced producer was convicted last month on three of seven counts. Lench said she had received the request “to continue for the purpose of filing a new trial motion.”
Lench gave Werksman until Jan. 31 to file for a new trial, and the prosecution will have until Feb. 14 to respond. A new sentencing hearing was then set for Feb. 23, which will go forward unless a new trial is granted.
Weinstein was in court in a wheelchair, wearing his brown LA County prison outfit. After the hearing was over, Werksman said he wasn’t ready to discuss the reasons for the new-trial request, but...
- 1/9/2023
- by Kelly Hartog and Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
Gloria Allred, the high-wattage attorney and women’s rights activist, represented three victims in Harvey Weinstein’s Los Angeles rape trial, two of whom ultimately testified against the disgraced producer.
In an interview with Variety after the verdict, Allred said that she was “disturbed” that none of her clients will be allowed to speak at Weinstein’s sentencing.
Judge Lisa B. Lench has said she will allow only one victim to address the court: Jane Doe #1, the only one whose allegations resulted in a conviction.
Allred said her clients “went through a grueling, challenging and brutal cross-examination, and they did it for the cause of justice. They should have an opportunity to give a victim impact statement at the sentencing, even though he was not convicted on any charges.” She added, “Why can’t they speak out in the court?”
Allred said she will push for new legislation to give...
In an interview with Variety after the verdict, Allred said that she was “disturbed” that none of her clients will be allowed to speak at Weinstein’s sentencing.
Judge Lisa B. Lench has said she will allow only one victim to address the court: Jane Doe #1, the only one whose allegations resulted in a conviction.
Allred said her clients “went through a grueling, challenging and brutal cross-examination, and they did it for the cause of justice. They should have an opportunity to give a victim impact statement at the sentencing, even though he was not convicted on any charges.” She added, “Why can’t they speak out in the court?”
Allred said she will push for new legislation to give...
- 12/23/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
The judge in Harvey Weinstein’s Los Angeles trial declared a mistrial Tuesday on aggravating factors that could have lengthened the disgraced mogul’s prison sentence.
The jury had been weighing whether Weinstein carried out the rape of a Russian model and actress dubbed Jane Doe 1 with planning, sophistication or professionalism, and whether Jane Doe 1 was particularly vulnerable.
The jury was hung on those questions, with 10 panelists favoring guilty verdicts with aggravating factors and two favoring nonguilty verdicts.
Weinstein faces up to 18 years in prison from his conviction in the main portion of the trial, in which he was found guilty on three of seven felony counts. That sentence could have risen to 24 years if the jury had agreed the aggravating factors had been met.
Also Read:
Harvey Weinstein Found Guilty on 3 of 7 Counts in LA Rape Trial
On Tuesday, Superior Court Judge Lisa Lench informed the L.A. courtroom...
The jury had been weighing whether Weinstein carried out the rape of a Russian model and actress dubbed Jane Doe 1 with planning, sophistication or professionalism, and whether Jane Doe 1 was particularly vulnerable.
The jury was hung on those questions, with 10 panelists favoring guilty verdicts with aggravating factors and two favoring nonguilty verdicts.
Weinstein faces up to 18 years in prison from his conviction in the main portion of the trial, in which he was found guilty on three of seven felony counts. That sentence could have risen to 24 years if the jury had agreed the aggravating factors had been met.
Also Read:
Harvey Weinstein Found Guilty on 3 of 7 Counts in LA Rape Trial
On Tuesday, Superior Court Judge Lisa Lench informed the L.A. courtroom...
- 12/20/2022
- by Jeremy Bailey and Kelly Hartog
- The Wrap
The jury in Harvey Weinstein’s L.A. trial deadlocked on Tuesday on two sentencing factors that could have led to a longer prison term on rape and sexual assault charges.
Because the jurors could not reach a unanimous decision on those factors, Weinstein will face no more than 18 years in prison on the L.A. case. Weinstein is already serving a 23-year sentence after his conviction in New York in 2020.
The L.A. jury convicted Weinstein on Monday of three counts, finding that he raped a model at the Mr. C hotel in February 2013. The prosecution asked the jury to approve two factors: that the victim was “particularly vulnerable” and that Weinstein had planned the assault.
On each of the three counts, Weinstein faced a potential sentence of three, six or eight years in prison. Under a California law that went into effect on Jan. 1, a jury must approve...
Because the jurors could not reach a unanimous decision on those factors, Weinstein will face no more than 18 years in prison on the L.A. case. Weinstein is already serving a 23-year sentence after his conviction in New York in 2020.
The L.A. jury convicted Weinstein on Monday of three counts, finding that he raped a model at the Mr. C hotel in February 2013. The prosecution asked the jury to approve two factors: that the victim was “particularly vulnerable” and that Weinstein had planned the assault.
On each of the three counts, Weinstein faced a potential sentence of three, six or eight years in prison. Under a California law that went into effect on Jan. 1, a jury must approve...
- 12/20/2022
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
A Los Angeles jury found Harvey Weinstein guilty of rape and sexual assault in his second trial on Monday. The verdict, reached after a month-long trial and nine days of deliberation, further condemns the disgraced Hollywood mogul to spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Weinstein, 70, who is two years into a 23-year sentence for a 2020 rape and sexual assault conviction in New York, will now receive a longer sentence to be determined early next year. He faces a possible sentence of 24 years in prison, according to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office.
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died This Year!
The recent charges, one count of rape, one count of sexual penetration by a foreign object and one count of forcible oral copulation, were tied to Jane Doe 1, one of four accusers whose allegations ignited the #MeToo movement several years ago.
Jane Doe 1, an Italian model and actress,...
Weinstein, 70, who is two years into a 23-year sentence for a 2020 rape and sexual assault conviction in New York, will now receive a longer sentence to be determined early next year. He faces a possible sentence of 24 years in prison, according to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office.
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died This Year!
The recent charges, one count of rape, one count of sexual penetration by a foreign object and one count of forcible oral copulation, were tied to Jane Doe 1, one of four accusers whose allegations ignited the #MeToo movement several years ago.
Jane Doe 1, an Italian model and actress,...
- 12/20/2022
- by Miranda Dipaolo
- Uinterview
The L.A. jury that on Monday convicted Harvey Weinstein of three out of seven felony counts in his rape trial on Tuesday resumed deliberations on aggravating factors that could lengthen the disgraced mogul’s prison sentence.
The jury is weighing whether Weinstein carried out the rape of a Russian model and actress dubbedJane Doe 1 with planning, sophistication or professionalism, and whether Jane Doe 1 was particularly vulnerable. Weinstein faces up to 18 years in prison, but that total rise to 24 years if the jury agrees that the aggravating factors have been met.
In the courthouse Tuesday, prosecutor Paul Thompson took 10 minutes to argue that was Jane Doe 1 was particularly vulnerable under California law because she suffered a “loss, injury or harm or any of those three things.”
He noted that it was “obvious” Jane Doe 1 was still terrified and emotional when testifying in the case; that she spoke about being emotionally...
The jury is weighing whether Weinstein carried out the rape of a Russian model and actress dubbedJane Doe 1 with planning, sophistication or professionalism, and whether Jane Doe 1 was particularly vulnerable. Weinstein faces up to 18 years in prison, but that total rise to 24 years if the jury agrees that the aggravating factors have been met.
In the courthouse Tuesday, prosecutor Paul Thompson took 10 minutes to argue that was Jane Doe 1 was particularly vulnerable under California law because she suffered a “loss, injury or harm or any of those three things.”
He noted that it was “obvious” Jane Doe 1 was still terrified and emotional when testifying in the case; that she spoke about being emotionally...
- 12/20/2022
- by Kelly Hartog
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
After ten days of deliberations, Harvey Weinstein was convicted of rape in a Los Angeles trial, the jury found on Monday. But, in a mixed verdict, the 12-member jury acquitted Weinstein of another sexual assault charge related to a different Jane Doe accuser and couldn’t reach a decision on three other counts.
This trial centered on testimony from four women, all known as Jane Does in court, who accused Weinstein of raping or sexually assaulting them from 2004 to 2013. Four others also testified that they were assaulted, though their claims didn’t lead to charges. In total, prosecutors called 44 witnesses to the stand to make their case against the former movie mogul.
Weinstein faced two counts of rape and five counts of other types of sexual assault. He pleaded not guilty to all charges against him. Weinstein is currently serving a 23-year sentence...
After ten days of deliberations, Harvey Weinstein was convicted of rape in a Los Angeles trial, the jury found on Monday. But, in a mixed verdict, the 12-member jury acquitted Weinstein of another sexual assault charge related to a different Jane Doe accuser and couldn’t reach a decision on three other counts.
This trial centered on testimony from four women, all known as Jane Does in court, who accused Weinstein of raping or sexually assaulting them from 2004 to 2013. Four others also testified that they were assaulted, though their claims didn’t lead to charges. In total, prosecutors called 44 witnesses to the stand to make their case against the former movie mogul.
Weinstein faced two counts of rape and five counts of other types of sexual assault. He pleaded not guilty to all charges against him. Weinstein is currently serving a 23-year sentence...
- 12/19/2022
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Harvey Weinstein was found guilty Monday of three felony counts including forcible rape, forcible oral copulation and forcible penetration by a foreign object, but the Los Angeles jury was hung on three other counts – including allegations brought by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the wife of California Gov. Gavin Newsom — and found the disgraced movie mogul not guilty on the remaining charge.
Weinstein, dressed in a gray suit and tie, held his head in his hands as the first guilty verdict was read. The jury was expected back Tuesday to sort out aggravating factors that will affect sentencing, but the verdicts were officially entered and will stand, while a mistrial was declared for the three deadlocked counts.
Jurors heard 44 prosecution witnesses – and a handful for the defense – in the two-month trial that began Oct. 10 with jury selection. The panel of nine men and three women deliberated some 40 hours over 10 days, and came...
Weinstein, dressed in a gray suit and tie, held his head in his hands as the first guilty verdict was read. The jury was expected back Tuesday to sort out aggravating factors that will affect sentencing, but the verdicts were officially entered and will stand, while a mistrial was declared for the three deadlocked counts.
Jurors heard 44 prosecution witnesses – and a handful for the defense – in the two-month trial that began Oct. 10 with jury selection. The panel of nine men and three women deliberated some 40 hours over 10 days, and came...
- 12/19/2022
- by Kelly Hartog and Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
The jurors in the Harvey Weinstein trial asked a question and sought readback of testimony from the trial last week, court officials confirmed on Tuesday.
The jury has been deliberating for seven days on charges of rape and sexual assault against the producer. There is still no sign of a verdict, and the jury has also not indicated that they are deadlocked.
The jurors concluded for the day around 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and are due back Wednesday morning.
Weinstein is facing seven charges stemming from four accusers, including five counts of sexual assault and two counts of rape. The jurors must be unanimous to reach a verdict on each of the counts.
On Dec. 6, the jurors asked the court for readback of testimony, according to a minute order released on Tuesday. The court reporter spent about an hour reading the testimony on Dec. 7. Last Friday, the jury asked a question.
The jury has been deliberating for seven days on charges of rape and sexual assault against the producer. There is still no sign of a verdict, and the jury has also not indicated that they are deadlocked.
The jurors concluded for the day around 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and are due back Wednesday morning.
Weinstein is facing seven charges stemming from four accusers, including five counts of sexual assault and two counts of rape. The jurors must be unanimous to reach a verdict on each of the counts.
On Dec. 6, the jurors asked the court for readback of testimony, according to a minute order released on Tuesday. The court reporter spent about an hour reading the testimony on Dec. 7. Last Friday, the jury asked a question.
- 12/13/2022
- by Gene Maddaus and Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Six weeks after Harvey Weinstein’s lead attorney called Jennifer Siebel Newsom, wife of Gov. Gavin Newsom, a “bimbo” who was seeking career advancement by sleeping with the producer, it turns out his defense team was saving their harshest words for last.
Defense attorneys had their final say in a Los Angeles criminal court Thursday, telling the jury that all eight women who testified that Weinstein raped or assaulted them were either liars, or “fame and fortune seekers” who all have five words in common: “Take my word for it.”
Weinstein’s closing-statement duties fell to Alan Jackson, who has been taking over for lead defense attorney Mark Werksman in several key cross-examinations throughout the trial, now deep into its second month. Jackson has been the more animated and pugnacious of the two litigators, and he wasn’t holding back Thursday.
“Everything … is smoke and mirrors,” Jackson said. “Can you...
Defense attorneys had their final say in a Los Angeles criminal court Thursday, telling the jury that all eight women who testified that Weinstein raped or assaulted them were either liars, or “fame and fortune seekers” who all have five words in common: “Take my word for it.”
Weinstein’s closing-statement duties fell to Alan Jackson, who has been taking over for lead defense attorney Mark Werksman in several key cross-examinations throughout the trial, now deep into its second month. Jackson has been the more animated and pugnacious of the two litigators, and he wasn’t holding back Thursday.
“Everything … is smoke and mirrors,” Jackson said. “Can you...
- 12/1/2022
- by Josh Dickey and Kelly Hartog
- The Wrap
Closing arguments began Wednesday in the Los Angeles rape trial of Harvey Weinstein, capping more than a month of testimony that included eight women whose accusations of rape and sexual assault could be in the hands of the jury before the weekend.
Before prosecutors began their closing statement, the defense breezed through a few housecleaning witnesses on Wednesday, including a security worker named Christian Sheriff, who testified that there was a fire alarm at Mr. C’s hotel the night Jane Doe 1 testified Weinstein tracked her down in her room and raped her.
Another witness was FBI special agent Mike Easter, a cell-phone positioning expert who testified about a text message a Jane Doe witness sent from the Venice area to Weinstein associate Claudia Salinas. It was assumed that defense attorney Mark Werksman would clarify the reason for Wednesday’s witnesses in his closing statement.
Deputy District Attorney Marlene Martinez...
Before prosecutors began their closing statement, the defense breezed through a few housecleaning witnesses on Wednesday, including a security worker named Christian Sheriff, who testified that there was a fire alarm at Mr. C’s hotel the night Jane Doe 1 testified Weinstein tracked her down in her room and raped her.
Another witness was FBI special agent Mike Easter, a cell-phone positioning expert who testified about a text message a Jane Doe witness sent from the Venice area to Weinstein associate Claudia Salinas. It was assumed that defense attorney Mark Werksman would clarify the reason for Wednesday’s witnesses in his closing statement.
Deputy District Attorney Marlene Martinez...
- 12/1/2022
- by Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
“In 2005, who would have thought that the most powerful man in Hollywood was a closet rapist?” Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney Marlene Martinez asked jurors Wednesday in Harvey Weinstein’s West Coast rape trial. “Who could blame her for thinking that she could handle herself,” the prosecutor queried over now-California First Partner and trial Jane Doe #4 Jennifer Siebel Newsom in her closing argument.
Related Story Danny Masterson Rape Case Retrial Set For March; "Fight Is Far From Over," Jane Does Say After Jury Hung On Charges – Update Related Story Peter Bart: 'She Said' Team Should Have Investigated Hiring Oscar-Winning 'Spotlight' Writer Related Story 'She Said' Global Launch Boosts Former Harvey Weinstein Survivors' Campaign To Stop Misuse Of NDAs As Time's Up UK Gives Backing
In the first portion of a closing argument that will continue Thursday, Martinez zeroed in on the much accused former mogul’s powerful perch.
Related Story Danny Masterson Rape Case Retrial Set For March; "Fight Is Far From Over," Jane Does Say After Jury Hung On Charges – Update Related Story Peter Bart: 'She Said' Team Should Have Investigated Hiring Oscar-Winning 'Spotlight' Writer Related Story 'She Said' Global Launch Boosts Former Harvey Weinstein Survivors' Campaign To Stop Misuse Of NDAs As Time's Up UK Gives Backing
In the first portion of a closing argument that will continue Thursday, Martinez zeroed in on the much accused former mogul’s powerful perch.
- 12/1/2022
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
After a brief few days, Harvey Weinstein’s defense has rested its case in the former Hollywood mogul’s Los Angeles rape and sexual assault case.
Weinstein’s attorneys, Alan Jackson and Mark Werksman, called a total of six witnesses, presenting their case over the course of two days this week. The prosecution’s case was much lengthier, spanning nearly a month with 44 witnesses taking the stand.
Closing arguments will begin later on Wednesday afternoon and are expected to wrap up this week, then sending the case into the jury’s hands. Deliberations will likely start by the end of this week and carry into next week before a verdict is reached.
Weinstein faces seven charges and a maximum sentence of 60 years. He is facing two counts of rape and five counts of sexual assault in Los Angeles. Eight women testified with sexual assault accusations against Weinstein through the trial,...
Weinstein’s attorneys, Alan Jackson and Mark Werksman, called a total of six witnesses, presenting their case over the course of two days this week. The prosecution’s case was much lengthier, spanning nearly a month with 44 witnesses taking the stand.
Closing arguments will begin later on Wednesday afternoon and are expected to wrap up this week, then sending the case into the jury’s hands. Deliberations will likely start by the end of this week and carry into next week before a verdict is reached.
Weinstein faces seven charges and a maximum sentence of 60 years. He is facing two counts of rape and five counts of sexual assault in Los Angeles. Eight women testified with sexual assault accusations against Weinstein through the trial,...
- 11/30/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein’s defense called on a choreographer from the 2004 film “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights” to answer questions about a dancer from the movie, who is a witness testifying in the L.A. trial. The dancer has alleged that she was sexually assaulted by Weinstein during production on the musical film, which his company Miramax produced.
Choreographer JoAnn Jansen was subpoenaed by Weinstein’s defense team to take the stand on Monday afternoon. She was the main choreographer on the 2004 film, which was a reimagining of the original hit “Dirty Dancing,” and has worked on a total of four films for Weinstein.
Jansen said she has no recollection of ever meeting Ashley Matthau, who is an uncharged witness in the trial. Matthau had booked a small role as a dancer on the “Dirty Dancing” sequel. During her testimony, she alleged she was assaulted in 2003 when Weinstein masturbated on her in...
Choreographer JoAnn Jansen was subpoenaed by Weinstein’s defense team to take the stand on Monday afternoon. She was the main choreographer on the 2004 film, which was a reimagining of the original hit “Dirty Dancing,” and has worked on a total of four films for Weinstein.
Jansen said she has no recollection of ever meeting Ashley Matthau, who is an uncharged witness in the trial. Matthau had booked a small role as a dancer on the “Dirty Dancing” sequel. During her testimony, she alleged she was assaulted in 2003 when Weinstein masturbated on her in...
- 11/29/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein’s defense called their first three witnesses on Monday morning, following nearly a month of the prosecution’s case in the disgraced producer’s Los Angeles sexual assault and rape trial. Weinstein’s attorneys have said they intend to call six witnesses in total, and expect to rest their case this week.
All three witnesses took the stand to testify about details relating to allegations from Jane Doe No. 1, who testified that Weinstein raped her and forced her to perform oral sex in February 2013.
In her three-day testimony, Jane Doe No. 1 broke down on the stand when she claimed she was assaulted by Weinstein during a business trip in L.A. where she was a VIP guest attending the Los Angeles Italia Film Festival. She claims that the alleged incident occurred at her hotel, Mr. C Beverly Hills, when Weinstein suddenly showed up in the middle of the...
All three witnesses took the stand to testify about details relating to allegations from Jane Doe No. 1, who testified that Weinstein raped her and forced her to perform oral sex in February 2013.
In her three-day testimony, Jane Doe No. 1 broke down on the stand when she claimed she was assaulted by Weinstein during a business trip in L.A. where she was a VIP guest attending the Los Angeles Italia Film Festival. She claims that the alleged incident occurred at her hotel, Mr. C Beverly Hills, when Weinstein suddenly showed up in the middle of the...
- 11/28/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein has chosen not to testify in his own defense, an expected outcome as his Los Angeles trial for the rape and sexual assault of several accusers, who have given hours of grueling testimony over nearly two months, nears a conclusion.
Weinstein did not take the stand for his 2020 trial in New York, where he is serving a 23-year sentence. It is considered risky – and is less common – for defendants to testify on their own behalf in criminal sexual assault cases. In separate civil sex assault trials that both played out in October, Kevin Spacey and Paul Haggis each defended themselves from the stand; Spacey successfully, Haggis not so much.
Judge Lisa B. Lench made abundantly clear that she wanted Weinstein on the record saying he was aware of his rights: “I want you to understand that you have an absolute right to testify,” and also the right not to testify,...
Weinstein did not take the stand for his 2020 trial in New York, where he is serving a 23-year sentence. It is considered risky – and is less common – for defendants to testify on their own behalf in criminal sexual assault cases. In separate civil sex assault trials that both played out in October, Kevin Spacey and Paul Haggis each defended themselves from the stand; Spacey successfully, Haggis not so much.
Judge Lisa B. Lench made abundantly clear that she wanted Weinstein on the record saying he was aware of his rights: “I want you to understand that you have an absolute right to testify,” and also the right not to testify,...
- 11/28/2022
- by Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
Harvey Weinstein will not testify in his ongoing sexual assault and rape trial.
Weinstein’s attorney, Mark Werksman, told the judge on Monday morning that his client would not be testifying. Weinstein also confirmed that it is his decision not to take the stand, telling the judge that he opted not to testify.
“I want you to understand that you have an absolute right to testify,” Judge Lisa B. Lench told Weinstein in the courtroom on Monday morning. She also told Weinstein that he has the right not to testify. “Yes,” Weinstein responded, indicating to the judge that he understands his rights, but has decided not to testify.
Weinstein did not testify in his New York trial in 2020, and it seemed unlikely that he would testify in this trial.
Weinstein faces seven charges in this trial: five counts of sexual assault and two counts of rape. If convicted on all charges,...
Weinstein’s attorney, Mark Werksman, told the judge on Monday morning that his client would not be testifying. Weinstein also confirmed that it is his decision not to take the stand, telling the judge that he opted not to testify.
“I want you to understand that you have an absolute right to testify,” Judge Lisa B. Lench told Weinstein in the courtroom on Monday morning. She also told Weinstein that he has the right not to testify. “Yes,” Weinstein responded, indicating to the judge that he understands his rights, but has decided not to testify.
Weinstein did not testify in his New York trial in 2020, and it seemed unlikely that he would testify in this trial.
Weinstein faces seven charges in this trial: five counts of sexual assault and two counts of rape. If convicted on all charges,...
- 11/28/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Producer-director David Nutter testified at the Harvey Weinstein trial, called by the prosecution to corroborate details of an accuser’s story.
Nutter, best known as Emmy-winning executive producer and director of ‘Game of Thrones’, came up earlier this week in the trial when a woman accusing Weinstein of rape told the jury that she confided in Nutter after she was allegedly assaulted by Weinstein, reports Variety.
She said that Nutter was the first person she told about the incident in question.
Nutter was working with the model and actor – who is known in the case as Natassia M. – on a commercial in 2007 or 2008. During his testimony, Nutter said that Natassia M. is now a friend and someone he has mentored in the industry. He had hired her on a few shows throughout the years, including ‘Dark Angel’.
In Oct. 2009, Natassia M. called Nutter to disclose her encounter with Weinstein in London.
Nutter, best known as Emmy-winning executive producer and director of ‘Game of Thrones’, came up earlier this week in the trial when a woman accusing Weinstein of rape told the jury that she confided in Nutter after she was allegedly assaulted by Weinstein, reports Variety.
She said that Nutter was the first person she told about the incident in question.
Nutter was working with the model and actor – who is known in the case as Natassia M. – on a commercial in 2007 or 2008. During his testimony, Nutter said that Natassia M. is now a friend and someone he has mentored in the industry. He had hired her on a few shows throughout the years, including ‘Dark Angel’.
In Oct. 2009, Natassia M. called Nutter to disclose her encounter with Weinstein in London.
- 11/18/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Producer and director David Nutter testified at the Harvey Weinstein trial, called by the prosecution to corroborate details of an accuser’s story.
Nutter, best known as an Emmy-winning executive producer and director on “Game of Thrones,” came up earlier this week in the trial when a woman accusing Weinstein of rape told the jury that she confided in Nutter after she was allegedly assaulted by Weinstein. She said Nutter was the first person she told about the incident in question.
Nutter was working with the model and actor — who is known in the case as Natassia M. — on a commercial in 2007 or 2008. During his testimony, Nutter said that Natassia M. is now a friend and someone he has mentored in the industry. He had hired her on a few shows throughout the years, including “Dark Angel.”
In Oct. 2009, Natassia M. called Nutter to disclose her encounter with Weinstein in London.
Nutter, best known as an Emmy-winning executive producer and director on “Game of Thrones,” came up earlier this week in the trial when a woman accusing Weinstein of rape told the jury that she confided in Nutter after she was allegedly assaulted by Weinstein. She said Nutter was the first person she told about the incident in question.
Nutter was working with the model and actor — who is known in the case as Natassia M. — on a commercial in 2007 or 2008. During his testimony, Nutter said that Natassia M. is now a friend and someone he has mentored in the industry. He had hired her on a few shows throughout the years, including “Dark Angel.”
In Oct. 2009, Natassia M. called Nutter to disclose her encounter with Weinstein in London.
- 11/18/2022
- by Michaela Zee and Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
David Nutter, who has directed key episodes – many of them successful pilots – of a stunning number of popular TV shows from “The X Files” to the infamous “Game of Thrones” Red Wedding shocker, took the stand Thursday in the rape trial of Harvey Weinstein to support the testimony of a Jane Doe witness and friend, fulfilling an oath he made to her years ago.
Nutter followed the testimony of “Nm,” a model and actress from Norway who testified Wednesday that she had met Weinstein only a few times before when one night, after the 2008 BAFTAs in London, she awoke to the Miramax mogul banging on her hotel room door. She said he was disheveled and agitated as he shoved his way in, pushed her down on the bed and raped her – then assaulted her again upon subsequent meetings.
Nutter testified that Nm confided in him about a month after the first assault,...
Nutter followed the testimony of “Nm,” a model and actress from Norway who testified Wednesday that she had met Weinstein only a few times before when one night, after the 2008 BAFTAs in London, she awoke to the Miramax mogul banging on her hotel room door. She said he was disheveled and agitated as he shoved his way in, pushed her down on the bed and raped her – then assaulted her again upon subsequent meetings.
Nutter testified that Nm confided in him about a month after the first assault,...
- 11/17/2022
- by Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
A Norwegian model took the stand in Harvey Weinstein’s trial on Wednesday and testified that the former movie mogul allegedly raped her, masturbated in front of her and propositioned her for a threesome.
The complex testimony spanned a series of events over a number of years. The alleged incidents occurred during industry events such as the BAFTA Awards, New York Fashion Week, the Cannes Film Festival and AFI Fest, as well as an audition for the musical film “Nine,” which was distributed by The Weinstein Company in 2009.
Weinstein’s defense questioned the woman, known in the case as Natassia M., as to why she agreed to see Weinstein repeatedly after she alleges she was sexually assaulted. She spoke about the power imbalance between her and Weinstein, telling the jury she was concerned that if she didn’t keep up a friendly relationship with Weinstein, he would blacklist her from the biz.
The complex testimony spanned a series of events over a number of years. The alleged incidents occurred during industry events such as the BAFTA Awards, New York Fashion Week, the Cannes Film Festival and AFI Fest, as well as an audition for the musical film “Nine,” which was distributed by The Weinstein Company in 2009.
Weinstein’s defense questioned the woman, known in the case as Natassia M., as to why she agreed to see Weinstein repeatedly after she alleges she was sexually assaulted. She spoke about the power imbalance between her and Weinstein, telling the jury she was concerned that if she didn’t keep up a friendly relationship with Weinstein, he would blacklist her from the biz.
- 11/17/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Director-actor Mel Gibson, will not be called to testify in Harvey Weinstein’s criminal trial, by the prosecutors.
Gibson would have been brought onto the stand to corroborate parts of a story from a Jane Doe in the case, who said she confided in Gibson after she was allegedly sexually assaulted by Weinstein, reports Variety.
Jane Doe was Gibson’s massage therapist. She told the jury that the ‘Braveheart’ actor had become a close friend, so she told him about the alleged incident during an appointment. She said Gibson offered to help and asked if she wanted to call the police or find a lawyer.
“He was the first person that I had finally opened up to,” Jane Doe #3 said during her testimony earlier this month, crying on the stand.
According to Variety, earlier in the trial, a journalist and producer, Allison Weiner, who is also friends with Gibson, testified...
Gibson would have been brought onto the stand to corroborate parts of a story from a Jane Doe in the case, who said she confided in Gibson after she was allegedly sexually assaulted by Weinstein, reports Variety.
Jane Doe was Gibson’s massage therapist. She told the jury that the ‘Braveheart’ actor had become a close friend, so she told him about the alleged incident during an appointment. She said Gibson offered to help and asked if she wanted to call the police or find a lawyer.
“He was the first person that I had finally opened up to,” Jane Doe #3 said during her testimony earlier this month, crying on the stand.
According to Variety, earlier in the trial, a journalist and producer, Allison Weiner, who is also friends with Gibson, testified...
- 11/17/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Prosecutors will not call Mel Gibson to testify in Harvey Weinstein’s criminal trial, after all.
Gibson would have been brought onto the stand to corroborate parts of a story from a Jane Doe in the case, who said she confided in Gibson after she was allegedly sexually assaulted by Weinstein.
Jane Doe #3 was Gibson’s massage therapist. She told the jury that the “Braveheart” actor had become a close friend, so she told him about the alleged incident during an appointment. She said Gibson offered to help and asked if she wanted to call the police or find a lawyer.
“He was the first person that I had finally opened up to,” Jane Doe #3 said during her testimony earlier this month, crying on the stand.
Earlier in the trial, a journalist and producer, Allison Weiner, who is also friends with Gibson, testified to corroborate that Jane Doe #3 had opened...
Gibson would have been brought onto the stand to corroborate parts of a story from a Jane Doe in the case, who said she confided in Gibson after she was allegedly sexually assaulted by Weinstein.
Jane Doe #3 was Gibson’s massage therapist. She told the jury that the “Braveheart” actor had become a close friend, so she told him about the alleged incident during an appointment. She said Gibson offered to help and asked if she wanted to call the police or find a lawyer.
“He was the first person that I had finally opened up to,” Jane Doe #3 said during her testimony earlier this month, crying on the stand.
Earlier in the trial, a journalist and producer, Allison Weiner, who is also friends with Gibson, testified to corroborate that Jane Doe #3 had opened...
- 11/17/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Mel Gibson will not be taking the stand in Harvey Weinstein’s rape trial.
Prosecutors wouldn’t reveal in Judge Lisa Lench’s Los Angeles courtroom today why they’ve decided not to have the Oscar winner testify after all. However, Deputy District Attorneys Paul Thompson and Marlene Martinez made it very clear that Gibson will not be trekking down to the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center. The Da’s office did not respond to request from Deadline for more details about why Gibson won’t be testifying.
Related Story Danny Masterson Rape Trial: Jury Begins Deliberations As Closing Arguments End; “Scientology Cannot Be Avoided,” Prosecution Tells Court – Update Related Story Harvey Weinstein Prosecutors Drop Four Charges In L.A. Rape Trial; Jennifer Siebel Newsom Testimony Continues Related Story Jennifer Siebel Newsom Details Alleged Rape By Harvey Weinstein To Courtroom; Defense Focuses On Gavin Newsom's Career & Ex-Mogul's Political...
Prosecutors wouldn’t reveal in Judge Lisa Lench’s Los Angeles courtroom today why they’ve decided not to have the Oscar winner testify after all. However, Deputy District Attorneys Paul Thompson and Marlene Martinez made it very clear that Gibson will not be trekking down to the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center. The Da’s office did not respond to request from Deadline for more details about why Gibson won’t be testifying.
Related Story Danny Masterson Rape Trial: Jury Begins Deliberations As Closing Arguments End; “Scientology Cannot Be Avoided,” Prosecution Tells Court – Update Related Story Harvey Weinstein Prosecutors Drop Four Charges In L.A. Rape Trial; Jennifer Siebel Newsom Testimony Continues Related Story Jennifer Siebel Newsom Details Alleged Rape By Harvey Weinstein To Courtroom; Defense Focuses On Gavin Newsom's Career & Ex-Mogul's Political...
- 11/17/2022
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein’s attorneys took out a binder of emails when questioning Jennifer Siebel Newsom regarding her testimony about being sexually assaulted by the fallen movie producer. The First Partner of California is a key witness in Weinstein’s Los Angeles trial, having accused Weinstein of rape.
Throughout contentious and combative cross-examination, Weinstein’s attorney, Mark Werksman, spent at least two hours displaying dozens of emails for the jury that showcased Siebel Newsom arranging business meetings with Weinstein, asking him for producing advice and seeking political donations for her husband, Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom.
Weinstein’s defense argued that the emails between Siebel Newsom and Weinstein showed her willingly continuing communication with her perpetrator after she was allegedly raped in 2005. In response, Siebel Newsom explained that she kept in contact with Weinstein after the alleged assault in 2005 because “he was still the most powerful person in the industry,” so she...
Throughout contentious and combative cross-examination, Weinstein’s attorney, Mark Werksman, spent at least two hours displaying dozens of emails for the jury that showcased Siebel Newsom arranging business meetings with Weinstein, asking him for producing advice and seeking political donations for her husband, Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom.
Weinstein’s defense argued that the emails between Siebel Newsom and Weinstein showed her willingly continuing communication with her perpetrator after she was allegedly raped in 2005. In response, Siebel Newsom explained that she kept in contact with Weinstein after the alleged assault in 2005 because “he was still the most powerful person in the industry,” so she...
- 11/16/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Jennifer Siebel Newsom took the stand Tuesday for a second day of cross-examination that focused on the quality of her memories and evolving narrative around what she claims was a rape at the hands of Harvey Weinstein in 2005. But before she did, one of the criminal trial’s minor cliffhangers was finally resolved.
Court opened with prosecutors saying they will not proceed with charges relating to Jane Doe 5, asking the judge to drop counts eight through 11 – two counts each of forcible rape and oral copulation – leaving a total of seven charges: two of rape and five of sexual assault. Prosecutors had left open the possibility that Jane Doe 5 might testify, but since the moment she was left out of last month’s opening statements, this outcome was widely expected.
Newsom on Monday endured a grueling day of testimony, publicly disclosing for the first time details of an assault she alleges...
Court opened with prosecutors saying they will not proceed with charges relating to Jane Doe 5, asking the judge to drop counts eight through 11 – two counts each of forcible rape and oral copulation – leaving a total of seven charges: two of rape and five of sexual assault. Prosecutors had left open the possibility that Jane Doe 5 might testify, but since the moment she was left out of last month’s opening statements, this outcome was widely expected.
Newsom on Monday endured a grueling day of testimony, publicly disclosing for the first time details of an assault she alleges...
- 11/15/2022
- by Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Jennifer Siebel Newsom, a documentary filmmaker and actress married to California Gov. Gavin Newsom, took the stand on Monday as the fourth accuser to testify against Harvey Weinstein in his sexual assault trial, bursting into tears when asked to identify the disgraced movie mogul.
Siebel Newsom described herself as a relatively unknown actress when she met Weinstein at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2005, while he was a “kingmaker” at “the top of the industry.” Asked if she saw him in the downtown Los Angeles courtroom, she wept before whispering “yes” into the microphone and looked his direction at the defense table.
“He’s wearing a suit and a blue tie, and he’s staring at me,” she said from the witness stand.
Weinstein allegedly raped Siebel Newsom, who had not yet met her husband, Gov. Gavin Newsom, in Los Angeles after their...
Jennifer Siebel Newsom, a documentary filmmaker and actress married to California Gov. Gavin Newsom, took the stand on Monday as the fourth accuser to testify against Harvey Weinstein in his sexual assault trial, bursting into tears when asked to identify the disgraced movie mogul.
Siebel Newsom described herself as a relatively unknown actress when she met Weinstein at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2005, while he was a “kingmaker” at “the top of the industry.” Asked if she saw him in the downtown Los Angeles courtroom, she wept before whispering “yes” into the microphone and looked his direction at the defense table.
“He’s wearing a suit and a blue tie, and he’s staring at me,” she said from the witness stand.
Weinstein allegedly raped Siebel Newsom, who had not yet met her husband, Gov. Gavin Newsom, in Los Angeles after their...
- 11/14/2022
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A fashion influencer accused by one of Harvey Weinstein’s alleged victims of “roping” her into a hotel bathroom with the disgraced producer for an unwanted sexual encounter took the stand Wednesday, denying many key elements of the Jane Doe’s testimony in a heated, sometimes hostile and exasperated exchange with prosecutors.
Claudia Salinas was a key figure in the Monday testimony of Jane Doe 2, a fellow model-actress who says Salinas arranged a meeting between she and Weinstein in 2013, then walked them into a bathroom at the Montage and closed the door behind them. Jane Doe 2 said when she left the bathroom after being assaulted, Salinas was outside waiting, and gave her an “evil look.”
Salinas corroborated meeting Jane Doe 2 and making fast friends in 2012. She agreed that they connected on social media, exchanged numbers and at one point, Salinas asked her for a drinks meeting with Weinstein.
“I always bring someone with me,...
Claudia Salinas was a key figure in the Monday testimony of Jane Doe 2, a fellow model-actress who says Salinas arranged a meeting between she and Weinstein in 2013, then walked them into a bathroom at the Montage and closed the door behind them. Jane Doe 2 said when she left the bathroom after being assaulted, Salinas was outside waiting, and gave her an “evil look.”
Salinas corroborated meeting Jane Doe 2 and making fast friends in 2012. She agreed that they connected on social media, exchanged numbers and at one point, Salinas asked her for a drinks meeting with Weinstein.
“I always bring someone with me,...
- 11/10/2022
- by Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
After being subpoenaed by the prosecution, a social media influencer reluctantly took the stand, after she was given assurances that she would not be charged as Harvey Weinstein’s accomplice.
Claudia Salinas, a dancer and influencer who met Weinstein in the early 2000’s, was called by the prosecution, who questioned Salinas as to whether she led Jane Doe #2 up to Weinstein’s hotel room where a sexual assault allegedly took place. Salinas disputed the alleged version of events.
Prior to her testimony, Salinas appeared before the judge on Tuesday with her attorney, Scott Rosenblum, who expressed concerns over her testifying and suggested she might invoke the fifth amendment.
Deputy district attorney Paul Thompson said Rosenblum asked if his client, Salinas, could be charged as an accomplice. “I told him I haven’t charged her yet, I have no intention of charging her, but it is still within statute,” Thompson said,...
Claudia Salinas, a dancer and influencer who met Weinstein in the early 2000’s, was called by the prosecution, who questioned Salinas as to whether she led Jane Doe #2 up to Weinstein’s hotel room where a sexual assault allegedly took place. Salinas disputed the alleged version of events.
Prior to her testimony, Salinas appeared before the judge on Tuesday with her attorney, Scott Rosenblum, who expressed concerns over her testifying and suggested she might invoke the fifth amendment.
Deputy district attorney Paul Thompson said Rosenblum asked if his client, Salinas, could be charged as an accomplice. “I told him I haven’t charged her yet, I have no intention of charging her, but it is still within statute,” Thompson said,...
- 11/10/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Daphne Zuniga, an actor best known for her roles on “Melrose Place” and “One Tree Hill,” testified in the Harvey Weinstein trial Tuesday.
She was called by the prosecution as a witness related to Jane Doe #4, who was revealed to be First Partner of California, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the actor, filmmaker and wife to Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Zuniga is good friends with Siebel Newsom and testified that she recalls the day she first told her about a meeting with Weinstein.
Siebel Newsom has not taken the stand yet but is expected to testify in Weinstein’s case, where she will be a star witness. She came forward with abuse accusations against Weinstein in a 2017 essay in Huffington Post and alleges Weinstein raped her in 2005 when she was an up-and-coming filmmaker and actor, before she married Gov. Newsom. In recent years, she has become a leading voice for gender equality and against sexual harassment.
She was called by the prosecution as a witness related to Jane Doe #4, who was revealed to be First Partner of California, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the actor, filmmaker and wife to Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Zuniga is good friends with Siebel Newsom and testified that she recalls the day she first told her about a meeting with Weinstein.
Siebel Newsom has not taken the stand yet but is expected to testify in Weinstein’s case, where she will be a star witness. She came forward with abuse accusations against Weinstein in a 2017 essay in Huffington Post and alleges Weinstein raped her in 2005 when she was an up-and-coming filmmaker and actor, before she married Gov. Newsom. In recent years, she has become a leading voice for gender equality and against sexual harassment.
- 11/8/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
After a massage therapist, known as Jane Doe No. 3, testified about being assaulted numerous times by Harvey Weinstein, the convicted rapist’s lawyer questioned her on the stand for hours, focusing on what he called her “hazy” memory of the alleged incidents and why she was engaging in a book deal with Weinstein’s company if he had sexually assaulted her.
Jane Doe No. 3 gave graphic testimony earlier in the week and told the jury that Weinstein had masturbated in front of her and groped her breasts during an appointment when she was hired to give him a massage. After the first assault, she agreed to see Weinstein three more times for massage appointments or business meetings and claims he masturbated in front of her each subsequent time. All the while, Weinstein had offered her a book deal through his publishing company, and she had communicated with his staff about a potential book,...
Jane Doe No. 3 gave graphic testimony earlier in the week and told the jury that Weinstein had masturbated in front of her and groped her breasts during an appointment when she was hired to give him a massage. After the first assault, she agreed to see Weinstein three more times for massage appointments or business meetings and claims he masturbated in front of her each subsequent time. All the while, Weinstein had offered her a book deal through his publishing company, and she had communicated with his staff about a potential book,...
- 11/4/2022
- by Michaela Zee and Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein’s defense mounted a blistering cross-examination Friday of a key prosecution witness, highlighting her self-described “fuzzy” evolving memories, acceptance of gifts and career help from the disgraced producer and questioning why she continued to visit his hotel room alone after multiple alleged assaults.
Lead defense attorney Mark Werksman was at the podium this time – not Alan Jackson, the pugnacious inquisitor who had been doing cross-examinations in Weinstein’s Los Angeles rape trial so far – to question Jane Doe 3, a professional massage therapist. Jd 3 spent most of Wednesday and Thursday on the stand, telling how Weinstein hired her for a massage, molested and masturbated in front of her, promised not to do it again – and then did multiple more times on subsequent visits.
Werksman picked up quickly Friday on what any casual observer might: that despite the alleged prior assaults, Jd 3 kept agreeing to meet with him alone in his room.
Lead defense attorney Mark Werksman was at the podium this time – not Alan Jackson, the pugnacious inquisitor who had been doing cross-examinations in Weinstein’s Los Angeles rape trial so far – to question Jane Doe 3, a professional massage therapist. Jd 3 spent most of Wednesday and Thursday on the stand, telling how Weinstein hired her for a massage, molested and masturbated in front of her, promised not to do it again – and then did multiple more times on subsequent visits.
Werksman picked up quickly Friday on what any casual observer might: that despite the alleged prior assaults, Jd 3 kept agreeing to meet with him alone in his room.
- 11/4/2022
- by Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
Kelly Sipherd, a former actor who briefly met Harvey Weinstein during the Toronto International Film Festival when she was 24 years old in the early 90’s, testified that she was sexually assaulted by the producer in 1991 and again in 2008.
She told the jury that after Weinstein invited her up to his hotel room to see a movie script for a potential role, he forcibly performed oral sex on her and raped her, despite her repeatedly telling him to stop. Years later, during a chance run-in again at TIFF, when she intended to confront Weinstein for assaulting her nearly two decades later, he cornered her in a hotel bathroom and masturbated in front of her.
Over the years, Sipherd told a handful of friends about the alleged assault, but did not report the assaults to authorities until much later. She testified on Monday in Los Angeles that she told her friends what...
She told the jury that after Weinstein invited her up to his hotel room to see a movie script for a potential role, he forcibly performed oral sex on her and raped her, despite her repeatedly telling him to stop. Years later, during a chance run-in again at TIFF, when she intended to confront Weinstein for assaulting her nearly two decades later, he cornered her in a hotel bathroom and masturbated in front of her.
Over the years, Sipherd told a handful of friends about the alleged assault, but did not report the assaults to authorities until much later. She testified on Monday in Los Angeles that she told her friends what...
- 11/1/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Harvey Weinstein’s trial on rape allegations entered its second week with some discussion of how quickly the proceedings are moving.
Although the prosecution still has a number of witnesses to call, Weinstein’s attorney Mark Werksman told the judge that “we could very well have the bulk of the case by Thanksgiving week” finished with just a couple more days left of testimony. That would be a quicker timeline than has been estimated.
The proceedings on Monday were dominated by the testimony of Kelly Sipherd, who claimed that Weinstein sexually assaulted her in a hotel room during the Toronto Film Festival in 1991 and later sought sex and masturbated in front of her in a hotel bathroom in 2008.
Sipherd is among a series of “prior bad acts” witnesses who are testifying in the trial. Their claims are not the basis for the charges against Weinstein, but are being allowed to...
Although the prosecution still has a number of witnesses to call, Weinstein’s attorney Mark Werksman told the judge that “we could very well have the bulk of the case by Thanksgiving week” finished with just a couple more days left of testimony. That would be a quicker timeline than has been estimated.
The proceedings on Monday were dominated by the testimony of Kelly Sipherd, who claimed that Weinstein sexually assaulted her in a hotel room during the Toronto Film Festival in 1991 and later sought sex and masturbated in front of her in a hotel bathroom in 2008.
Sipherd is among a series of “prior bad acts” witnesses who are testifying in the trial. Their claims are not the basis for the charges against Weinstein, but are being allowed to...
- 11/1/2022
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
When the jury is dismissed each day in Harvey Weinstein’s trial, before they exit the courtroom, the judge reminds the jurors not to consume any media or read any news reports surrounding the high-profile case.
On Friday, Judge Lisa B. Lench added one extra reminder to her parting words, instructing the jury not to watch the trailer for “She Said,” Universal’s upcoming film about the journalists who broke the story that ignited Weinstein’s downfall and the #MeToo movement.
“She Said,” which hits theaters on Nov. 18, is based on the book by New York Times reporters Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, about their bombshell investigation into Weinstein’s alleged pattern of sexual harassment and assault. Zoe Kazan and Carey Mulligan play the two journalists in the movie that is getting strong reviews and even early Oscars buzz.
This is not the first time “She Said” has come up in Weinstein’s case.
On Friday, Judge Lisa B. Lench added one extra reminder to her parting words, instructing the jury not to watch the trailer for “She Said,” Universal’s upcoming film about the journalists who broke the story that ignited Weinstein’s downfall and the #MeToo movement.
“She Said,” which hits theaters on Nov. 18, is based on the book by New York Times reporters Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, about their bombshell investigation into Weinstein’s alleged pattern of sexual harassment and assault. Zoe Kazan and Carey Mulligan play the two journalists in the movie that is getting strong reviews and even early Oscars buzz.
This is not the first time “She Said” has come up in Weinstein’s case.
- 10/29/2022
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
The professional dancer hired as a body double for “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights” testifying against Harvey Weinstein on Friday said she never got to shoot the one scene she traveled to Puerto Rico for because the producer ordered her off the set, whisked her away in a limo and raped her at a Ritz Carlton while she was supposed to be filming.
The witness, known as “Ashley M.” at trial, was testifying for a second day in a Los Angeles criminal court. She was just the second of eight women whose stories will be heard, and as a “prior bad acts” witness, hers is not one of the cases for which Weinstein is charged.
The day before, Ashley M. described how, arriving to the set alone for a dance scene as a body-double for the film’s lead, someone told her that “Harvey’s going to like you.” When the...
The witness, known as “Ashley M.” at trial, was testifying for a second day in a Los Angeles criminal court. She was just the second of eight women whose stories will be heard, and as a “prior bad acts” witness, hers is not one of the cases for which Weinstein is charged.
The day before, Ashley M. described how, arriving to the set alone for a dance scene as a body-double for the film’s lead, someone told her that “Harvey’s going to like you.” When the...
- 10/28/2022
- by Kelly Hartog and Josh Dickey
- The Wrap
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