‘Star Trek’ Icon George Takei Has Denied Allegations Of Sexual Assault
He is accused of having sexually assaulted a young actor and model in 1981.
The following article discusses sexual assault.
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Star Trek actor and LGBTIQ+ activist George Takei has denied accusations that he sexually assaulted a young actor and model more than 35 years ago, insisting that the alleged incident “simply did not occur”.
On Saturday, The Hollywood Reporter published allegations by Scott R. Brunton, who claims that in 1981, Takei invited him back to his condo where he sexually assaulted him. Brunton, who was 23 years old at the time, told the publication that after he accepting a drink from the older man he began to feel “very disoriented and dizzy”.
“The next thing I remember I was coming to and [Takei] had my pants down around my ankles and he was groping my crotch and trying to get my underwear off and feeling me up at the same time, trying to get his hands down my underwear,” alleges Brunton.
The Hollywood Reporter spoke to four of Brunton’s friends, who said that Brunton had shared this story with them years ago. Brunton said he has wanted to speak out for a long time, but was worried that no one would believe him. His attitude changed after the recent avalanche of allegations against men in the entertainment industry in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, and specifically when Takei condemned Kevin Spacey for allegedly attempting to assault actor Anthony Rapp.
Life comes at you fast @GeorgeTakei pic.twitter.com/fdONteN1Vw
— R.C. Maxwell ?? (@BlackHannity) November 11, 2017
On Sunday, Takei, now 80, denied Brunton’s allegations in a series of tweets, writing that he was “as shocked and bewildered at these claims as you must feel reading them”.
“The events he describes back in the 1980s simply did not occur, and I do not know why he has claimed them now,” Takei continued. “I have wracked my brain to ask if I remember Mr. Brunton, and I cannot say I do.”
“Those that know me understand that non-consensual acts are so antithetical to my values and my practices, the very idea that someone would accuse me of this is quite personally painful.”
Friends,
I’m writing to respond to the accusations made by Scott R. Bruton. I want to assure you all that I am as shocked and bewildered at these claims as you must feel reading them. /1
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 11, 2017
The events he describes back in the 1980s simply did not occur, and I do not know why he has claimed them now. I have wracked my brain to ask if I remember Mr. Brunton, and I cannot say I do. /2
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 11, 2017
But I do take these claims very seriously, and I wanted to provide my response thoughtfully and not out of the moment. /3
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 11, 2017
Right now it is a he said / he said situation, over alleged events nearly 40 years ago. But those that know me understand that non-consensual acts are so antithetical to my values and my practices, the very idea that someone would accuse me of this is quite personally painful. /4
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 11, 2017
Brad, who is 100 percent beside me on this, as my life partner of more than 30 years and now my husband, stands fully by my side. I cannot tell you how vital it has been to have his unwavering support and love in these difficult times. /5
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 11, 2017
Thanks to many of you for all the kind words and trust. It means so much to us.
Yours in gratitude,
George /end
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 11, 2017
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If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
The National University Support Line also offers 24/7 free trauma counselling, at 1800 572 224.
Men can access anonymous confidential telephone counselling to help to stop using violent and controlling behaviour through the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.