Disgraced film producer Harvey Weinstein, known for his role in the #MeToo movement, is currently in a New York hospital for emergency heart surgery, according to BBC News.
His lawyers reported that Weinstein, 72, was taken from Rikers Island jail to Bellevue Hospital after experiencing chest pains.
Weinstein has a history of health problems, including heart issues, diabetes, and high blood pressure, and has been hospitalized multiple times in recent years.
In July, BBC highlighted that he was treated for COVID-19 and double pneumonia. His latest health scare adds to the challenges he’s facing as he appeals his convictions.
Weinstein was originally sentenced to 23 years in prison in New York for rape and sexual assault in 2020, but his convictions were overturned in April because an appeal judge ruled he didn’t receive a fair trial. A retrial could happen later this year.
Weinstein’s legal troubles aren’t over yet, as BBC points out. In addition to the New York case, he’s also been sentenced to 16 years in a separate rape trial in California, which he’s currently appealing.
Over 100 people have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct dating back to the late 1970s, sparking the #MeToo movement that brought attention to sexual abuse by powerful men.
Despite the accusations, Weinstein continues to maintain his innocence, claiming he was set up.
Weinstein’s impact on the film industry is undeniable. He co-founded Miramax, which produced major hits like “Shakespeare in Love” and “Pulp Fiction.”
His films have earned more than 300 Oscar nominations and 81 awards, but his legacy has been overshadowed by the serious accusations and convictions against him, as reported by BBC.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cewlep7q8dyo