Film producer Harvey Weinstein believes that he can resume his career should a jury clear him on charges of predatory sexual assault, a criminal sexual act, first-degree rape and third-degree rape.
Weinstein's trial is set to begin in New York on Monday. The charges concern alleged assaults on two women, one in 2006 and another in 2013. Over 80 women have alleged abuse from harassment to rape. The film producer denies all claims of non-consensual sexual contact and has pleaded not guilty.
He has also taken part in an email exchange with CNN. "It will take a bit of work to build back to it," he says, referring to his now dormant role in the Hollywood film industry. "If I can get back to doing something good and building places that help heal and comfort others, I intend to do so.
"The past two years have been grueling and have presented me with a great opportunity for self-reflection.
"I realise now that I was consumed with my work, my company and my drive for success. This caused me to neglect my family, my relationships, and to lash out at the people around me. I have been in rehab since October 2017, and have been involved in a 12-step programme and meditation. I have learned to give up my need for control.
"My meditation and focus on looking inward has helped me balance my emotions. The whole process has been overwhelming, but I am working every day to stay level."
`Dozens of women', according to The Guardian, are expected to be summoned by prosecutors in an attempt to establish a pattern of abusive behavior. The producer faces a long sentence if convicted.
Meanwhile, actress Rosanna Arquette has said she will be in the courtroom on Monday, according to Sky News. Arquette has accused Weinstein of derailing her career after she resisted his advances.
"I think either way, whatever happens, it's still going to be hard for the people that came forward, in terms of retaliation," she said. "He's all about that.
"You have all these women telling their stories. No one's making this up, you know. And I guess the system is built to protect the predator.
"And we need to keep the focus on this crime and this case with Harvey Weinstein is huge because so many people are looking at it as being, you know, what happens next for all survivors, all across the world."
Weinsten has also been talking to the New York Post. "I feel like the forgotten man," he told the newspaper. "I made more movies directed by women and about women than any film-maker, and I'm talking about 30 years ago. I’m not talking about now when it’s vogue. I did it first! I pioneered it!"
