Harvey Weinstein took the entertainment industry by storm when he was exposed to multiple allegations of sexual assault earlier this month. Since then, dozens of women, including celebrities, have come forward to share their own experiences of sexual abuse.
In light of the scandal, another personality associated with the glamorous film industry is now facing the same allegations from more than 30 women. Director and writer James Toback, who is known for his works in "Bugsy," "Two Girls and a Guy" and "Tyson," is being accused of making advances toward 38 women.
According to the LA Times, 31 of the alleged victims went on record with the paper to narrate their experience with him.
Sexual assault in Hollywood
From their statements, the alleged victims deemed James Toback as someone who has been using his power to sexually harass his female employees for decades. Like most victims, these women did not report their encounters with the director at the time it happened, according to a report by the Los Angeles Times.
James Toback denied the allegations pressed against him and insisted that he has no recollection of any involvement with these women accusing him of sexual assault and/or harassment. He cited he had diabetes and a heart condition that made it "biologically impossible" for him to perform such misconducts toward these women.
The "Seduced and Abandoned" director refused to give further comments on the issue. One of the alleged victims who has spoken out was Adrienne Lavalley, who recalled her own episode with the director in his hotel room back in 2008.
Director accused of sexually harassing female employees, aspiring actresses
The actress said she felt like a prostitute when James Toback harassed her.
Starr Rinaldi also recounted her own experience as an aspiring actress 15 years ago. She said the director would then ask her about how strong her desire was to be in the entertainment industr and would invite him to his hotel room.
“And the horrible thing is, whichever road you choose, whether you sleep with him or walk away, you’re still broken,” she told the publication “You have been violated.”
James Toback becomes the second film mogul to be accused of sexual assault and/or harassment.
Similarly, Harvey Weinstein is also facing multiple accusations of sexual misconducts toward his female employees and celebrities. Several actresses have already broken their silence to expose the "Shakespeare in Love" producer for his decades-old abuse of power for sexual gain.
