Julia Ormond sues Disney and Harvey Weinstein of sexual assault

Actress Julia Ormond Alleges Sexual Battery by Harvey Weinstein

English actress Julia Ormond, renowned for her roles in '90s films like "Legends of the Fall," "First Knight," and "Smilla's Sense of Snow," has taken legal action against Harvey Weinstein for sexual battery. This rare move also includes lawsuits against CAA, The Walt Disney Company, and Miramax. Weinstein, who has been the subject of numerous sexual assault allegations, is now facing a legal challenge that extends to business partners who profited from his work.

 

The Allegations and Lawsuits

In the lawsuit filed in New York Supreme Court, Ormond claims that Weinstein sexually assaulted her in 1995. According to the lawsuit, he lured her into giving him a massage, then proceeded to commit sexual acts against her will. Following the alleged assault, Ormond informed her agents, Bryan Lourd and Kevin Huvane, who were part of CAA at the time. However, the lawsuit contends that CAA did not adequately support her or protect her interests.

Ormond is suing CAA for negligence and breach of fiduciary duty. Miramax and The Walt Disney Company, the entities closely associated with Weinstein, are also facing lawsuits for negligent supervision and retention. The lawsuit highlights that these prominent companies were aware of Weinstein's history but failed to warn Ormond or take appropriate action.

 

Speaking Out for Change

Julia Ormond's decision to come forward stems from her belief in the need for systemic change and accountability for enablers in Hollywood and workplaces in general. She hopes that her story can contribute to greater transparency in corporate structures, reporting mechanisms, and the use of non-disclosure agreements to silence victims.

 

Denial and Counterclaims

Weinstein categorically denies the allegations, and his attorney is prepared to defend him vigorously. CAA has also refuted Ormond's claims, stating that they are baseless and that the agency will contest them in court.

 

Career and Personal Impact

Ormond's lawsuit details the impact of the alleged assault on her career and personal life. Despite a successful early career, she faced professional setbacks and a significant decline in her public presence. Ormond's legal team highlights the catastrophic consequences of the assault on her personal and professional well-being.

 

Seeking Accountability

Julia Ormond's legal team expresses her desire to hold those who enabled Harvey Weinstein accountable for their actions. The lawsuit underscores that Weinstein's alleged actions were well-known within the industry, and it calls for a deeper examination of the systemic issues that allowed such behavior to persist.

 

Looking Ahead to Court

Julia Ormond anticipates her day in court to seek justice and accountability. Her legal team emphasizes that the impact of Weinstein's alleged crimes is still unfolding, and the lawsuit reflects the broader implications of his actions within the entertainment industry.

 

Legal Challenges and Ongoing Repercussions

The legal battle against Harvey Weinstein, CAA, Disney, and Miramax sheds light on the ongoing repercussions of sexual misconduct in the entertainment industry and the importance of accountability. Ormond's case is a poignant reminder of the need for change and the responsibility of all stakeholders in addressing such issues.