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As Hollywood begins to deal with the aftermath of American film producer Harvey Weinstein’s horrific scandal, we’ve been witness to plenty of missteps from those in the spotlight. Mayim Bialik, for instance, was taken to task for a controversial New York Times op-ed that many felt wrongfully placed the blame on the victims, and Jason Momoa apologized for a joke he made back in 2011 about “raping beautiful women.”
Now, James Corden is apologizing for his decision to open the amfAR Gala in LA with a series of off-color jokes based on details of Weinstein’s victims’ stories.
The Late Late Show With James Corden host caused an uproar when he began his hosting stint for the gala by remarking on what a beautiful night it was, adding, “So beautiful, Harvey Weinstein has already asked tonight up to his hotel room to give him a massage.”
When the audience reacted with a groan, he continued, “I don’t know whether that groan was because you liked that joke or you don’t like that joke. If you don’t like that joke, you should probably leave now.”
Straight out gate, host @JKCorden with Harvey Weinstein jokes. Too soon? Some laughs, some groans #amfARLosAngeles pic.twitter.com/nx88w5UwUe
— Chris Gardner (@chrissgardner) October 14, 2017
He then continued to make similar remarks referencing other allegations from Weinstein’s accusers, including British artist and writer Liza Campbell, who said that Weinstein asked her to join him in the bath, and journalist Lauren Sivan, who made mention of a potted plant when describing her experience.
Needless to say, the jokes didn’t go over so well, as many felt they were in poor taste and disrespectful to the brave women who chose to share their stories.
ALL the hard and brave work women have done this week in light of Hollywood abuse and @JKCorden belittles it all 🙄 it isn't BANTS. Do better
— Holli Dempsey (@HolliDee) October 15, 2017
James Corden, no! Why? Why would you joke about sexual assault and rape? Hollywood ain't laughing.
— Emma Gannon (@emmagannon) October 15, 2017
#JamesCorden no respect for the women who’ve come forward, not a time to joke. Absolutely disgusting #shameonyou https://t.co/BGb7Vmi1WH
— Talisa Garcia (@talisagarcia1) October 15, 2017
James Corden's "joke" is part of the problem, no offence
— Mollie Goodfellow 🎃 (@hansmollman) October 15, 2017
James Corden is one of the reasons sexual assault and rape aren't been taken seriously and made into a joke, rape jokes should never happen.
— my name is sophie 🌈 (@toogay2functi0n) October 15, 2017
As many pointed out, making light of the issue is emblematic of the problem with rape culture in general, as fear of not being taken seriously is one of the many reasons a victim of sexual harassment or assault may choose not to come forward.
The comedian has since come forward to address his jokes, saying that they were meant to mock the perpetrator and not the victims, and that he is truly sorry.
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
A valuable lesson to be learned by all.
Do you think James Corden’s comments were out of line? Share with us @BritandCo.
(Photo via Charley Gallay +Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty)
