George Takei, known for his role in Star Trek and advocacy for gay rights, has responded to an accusation of s**ual assault made by a young actor almost four decades ago.
The actor denied the alleged incident ever taking place, stating it simply did not occur.
The accuser, Scott R Brunton, claimed that in 1981 at the age of 23, he visited Takei’s condo in Los Angeles and believes his drink may have been tampered with.
He alleged that he woke up to Takei attempting to undress him and groping him.
Brunton shared that he confided in four close friends about the incident years ago.
In a series of statements posted on Twitter on Saturday, Takei expressed shock and disbelief at the accusation, denying any knowledge of Brunton or the events described.
He refuted the claims made against him, emphasizing that he could not recall any interactions with Brunton from the 1980s.
Further controversy arose when a recording from a recent Howard Stern radio show surfaced, where Takei was asked if he had ever inappropriately touched a man.
Takei’s response, coupled with the context of the conversation, added fuel to the ongoing discussion.
Brunton’s accusation emerged amidst a wave of s**ual misconduct allegations involving prominent figures in various industries.
The entertainment industry, politics, media, and sports have all seen individuals facing similar claims, highlighting a broader societal issue.
The #Metoo movement on social media has provided a platform for individuals to speak out against experiences of harassment and assault.
The allegations against Takei underscore the importance of addressing such claims seriously and thoughtfully, considering the impact on all parties involved.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Takei reaffirmed his commitment to his values and practices, vehemently denying any wrongdoing.
His long-standing advocacy for LGBTQ rights and relationship with his husband, Brad Altman, were also mentioned in his response, showcasing the support he received during this challenging period.
