In a revealing account nearly two decades later, former assistant to the controversial film mogul, Harvey Weiss, has stepped forward to share her harrowing experiences. Over the years, numerous women from the entertainment industry have come forth with allegations against Weiss, ranging from sexual harassment to assault. One particular testimony stands out: that of Lila Chen, who recounts the troubling dynamics of working for Weiss.
A Candid Reflection
In a candid piece for The New York Times Opinion section, Chen reflected on the predatory behavior she encountered, stating, “Harvey Weiss expressed a preference for Asian women, claiming they were secretive and discreet. Just hours later, he attempted to assault me.” Her narrative resonates with the stories of many other victims, filled with feelings of shame and fear of retaliation if they revealed his misconduct.
Manipulative Tactics
Chen, an Oxford graduate, was brought on to handle administrative tasks at Weiss’s agency while assisting him with European productions. Despite warnings about his notorious reputation, she was advised to manage him confidently. She described Weiss’s manipulative tactics, where he would dangle the promise of career advancement against the threat of professional ruin, testing how much women could endure.
A Night of Trauma
Her experience with the power imbalances was stark: as a woman, a minority, and a junior employee, she felt vulnerable. One night, while working on scripts, Weiss crossed the line. After donning two pairs of tights in an effort to protect herself, he forcefully removed them, pushed her onto a bed, and attempted to assault her, insisting that “just one thrust, and it will all be over.” Chen managed to escape, but the trauma she endured during her time at Weiss’s company plagued her for years. “That night altered the course of my life,” she wrote. “I unwittingly kept a harrowing secret, one that haunted me and led to two suicide attempts, and one I never revealed to my husband over the past decade.”
Ongoing Investigations
Currently, investigations into allegations from multiple women are ongoing across several cities, including Los Angeles and London. Weiss was arrested in May 2018, facing several serious charges. He had previously settled with numerous women, including Chen, exchanging silence for financial compensation.
Speaking Out
After nearly 20 years of silence, Chen emphasized the significance of sharing her story, stating, “It is crucial for me to speak up, to let my voice—an Asian woman’s voice—be heard alongside the growing chorus of the #MeToo movement.”
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Conclusion
In summary, Lila Chen’s testimony sheds light on the predatory behavior of Harvey Weiss and the challenges faced by women in the industry. Her decision to speak out after so long highlights the importance of sharing one’s story in the fight against systemic abuse.
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