Gwyneth Paltrow opened up to the media in 2017 about how Weinstein harassed her when she was 22 years old. The producer held a meeting with her at a hotel shortly after she was selected as the main lead in Emma. After the meeting, he put his hands on her back and suggested they go into the bedroom for massages. She rejected his advances.
Paltrow also stated that she confided in her then-boyfriend Bradd Pitt, and troubled by the casual but disturbing sexual harassment, he later confronted Weinstein. He took that step even though Bradd Pitt was just starting his film career, in comparison to the Hollywood mogul.
Pitt confronted Weinstein, asking him to never make such an advance towards his girlfriend again. Pitt said that he was especially concerned since Paltrow was going to be doing two movies with the producer. He furthermore said, “I think the interesting thing is that we, Hollywood specifically, but the workplace, men and women's dynamics is being recalibrated, recalibrated in a very good way that is long overdue. And I do think that's an important story to tell."
Weinstein’s spokesman responded to this interview, denying that he ever made those advances. The spokesman further clarified that he had never retaliated against any woman for denying his advances. ‘He will not be available for further comments, as he is taking the time to focus on his family, on getting counseling and rebuilding his life.’, he stated. This response is yet another disappointing instance of Weinstein denying any responsibility for his actions.