James Corden apologises after backlash over Harvey Weinstein jokes
James Corden has issued an apology for “anyone offended” by his jokes about Harvey Weinstein.
Corden received a backlash for his stint as host at the AmfAR Gala – an HIV/Aids fundraiser – in Los Angeles, where he chose to comment on the ongoing sexual harassment scandal involving the Hollywood film mogul.
The British actor, comedian and TV host was heard quipping: “This is a beautiful room. It’s a beautiful night here in LA. So beautiful, Harvey Weinstein has already asked tonight up to his hotel to give him a massage.”
Groans were heard amid some nervous laughter, according to Variety, which reported that Corden continued with: “It has been weird this week though, watching Harvey Weinstein in hot water. Ask any of the women who watched him take a bath.”
And later: “Harvey Weinstein wanted to come tonight, but sadly he’ll settle for whatever potted plant is closest.”
The jokes received a backlash on social media from several high-profile figures including Rose McGowan, who alleges that Weinstein raped her.
“You motherf***ing piglet,” she tweeted with a clip of Corden making his speech.
Asia Argento, who also claims she was assaulted by Weinstein, shared a clip of Corden’s speech on Twitter and wrote: “Shame on this pig and everyone who grunted with him #amfARLosAngeles.”
Corden has since issued a statement on Twitter which said: “To be clear, sexual assault is no laughing matter. I was not trying to make light of Harvey’s inexcusable behavior, but to shame him, the abuser, not his victims. I am truly sorry for anyone offended, that was never my intention.”
To be clear, sexual assault is no laughing matter. I was not trying to make light of Harvey’s inexcusable behavior, (1/2)
— James Corden (@JKCorden) October 15, 2017
but to shame him, the abuser, not his victims. I am truly sorry for anyone offended, that was never my intention. (2/2)
— James Corden (@JKCorden) October 15, 2017
James Corden’s apology is weak af. Trying to explain yourself is pointless when the damage is already done.
— Blake (@blake2108) October 15, 2017
How did it take James Corden and his PR machine 24 hours to come up with that beige apology though? https://t.co/zZXO0D6Xl8
— A🐝 (@husseybyname) October 15, 2017
Rolling my eyes at James Corden’s apology. Just another rich white man who didn’t ‘mean any offence’. And didn’t think before he spoke.
— Chels (@everlongly) October 16, 2017
James Corden there. So sincere in his apology he allowed his American PR team to spell behaviour wrong. pic.twitter.com/vlyehmoqQt
— Mark Nelson (@marknelsoncomic) October 15, 2017
Weinstein has denied all allegations of non-consensual sex.
Corden’s first break in Hollywood was when he played Britain’s Got Talent winner Paul Potts in One Chance, a film produced by The Weinstein Company.