Yahoo News Freeman SAG Award 'under review' over misconduct claim
The following article contains allegations of sexual misconduct that some readers may find distressing.
Morgan Freeman's prestigious career achievement award from Hollywood's acting union could be in jeopardy in the wake of sexual misconduct allegations.
The actor apologised on Thursday (May 24) if he'd ever made female colleagues feel "uncomfortable or disrespected", after being accused of inappropriate behaviour by eight women.
The allegations range from Freeman allegedly trying to repeatedly lift up the skirt of a production assistant on his film Going In Style to CNN entertainment reporter Chloe Melas's contention that he made unwanted advances during a film junket last year.
Earlier this year, Freeman was honoured with Hollywood union SAG-AFTRA's Life Achievement Award at the Screen Actors Guild ceremony - but now SAG-AFTRA says the honour could be revoked pending an investigation.
A statement from the group to The Hollywood Reporter read: "These are compelling and devastating allegations which are absolutely contrary to all the steps that we are taking to ensure a safe work environment for the professionals in this industry.
"Any accused person has the right to due process, but it is our starting point to believe the courageous voices who come forward to report incidents of harassment.
"Given Mr. Freeman recently received one of our union's most prestigious honors recognizing his body of work, we are therefore reviewing what corrective actions may be warranted at this time."
SAG-AFTRA recently revised its members' code of conduct following sexual misconduct allegations against prominent members Bill Cosby, Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey, among others.
Earlier on Thursday, Freeman said in a statement to Digital Spy: "Anyone who knows me or has worked with me knows I am not someone who would intentionally offend or knowingly make anyone feel uneasy. I apologise to anyone who felt uncomfortable or disrespected - that was never my intent."
Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of sexual violence. If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland's helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
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