Harvey Weinstein has revealed a cancer diagnosis as he awaits his second trial on sexual assault charges. The 72-year-old former film producer, currently incarcerated, received news of his condition earlier this month, according to sources close to the situation.
Initially, Weinstein’s representative denied the reports when approached for comment but later expressed concern over the speculation surrounding his health. “Craig Rothfeld, Mr. Weinstein’s authorized legal healthcare representative in New York State, is profoundly dismayed at the rumors regarding Mr. Weinstein’s medical condition. It is troubling and unacceptable that such private health matters have become a topic for public discussion. Out of respect for Mr. Weinstein’s privacy, we will not provide further comments,” the statement read.
Weinstein’s career as a prominent filmmaker was derailed in 2017 when a multitude of women accused him of rape and sexual harassment. Actress Rose McGowan was among the first to speak out, describing an encounter with Weinstein in a hotel room in Park City, Utah, in 1997 that was supposed to be a business meeting. She alleged that he forcibly undressed her upon her arrival.
The accusations against Weinstein date back to the 1990s, with many women refraining from coming forward due to fears of professional retaliation. In March 2020, he was sentenced to 23 years in prison after being convicted of third-degree rape and first-degree criminal sexual acts. Judge James Burke noted at the time, “Although this is a first conviction, it is not a first offense.”
Before receiving his sentence, Weinstein addressed the court, discussing the #MeToo movement. “To all the women who testified, we may have different truths. I have great remorse for all the individuals caught in this crisis,” he said, acknowledging his notoriety as a catalyst for the movement.
Currently, the disgraced filmmaker is facing additional legal challenges, as his previous conviction was overturned by a New York Court in a closely contested 4-3 decision in April 2024. Weinstein was convicted of raping aspiring actress Jessica Mann in 2013 and of sexually assaulting former “Project Runway” assistant Miriam “Mimi” Haleyi in 2006. Furthermore, he received a sentencing of an additional 16 years in 2022 after being found guilty of three other sexual assault charges.
