Director Peter Jackson Rebuts Harvey Weinstein’s Denial

First, film director, Peter Jackson, came clean about his “unwitting” connection to blacklisting two actresses: Ashley Judd and Mira Sorvino. His explanation was that he did so under pressure from producer, Harvey Weinstein and it was only until many years later, he and his wife, Fran, realized that they may have played a part in keeping the women from getting cast.

Then, Harvey Weinstein denied those claims via a spokesperson. The indirect denial feigning innocence and ignorance of any issues with either actress or their respective concerns, came in statement that said, “While Bob and Harvey Weinstein were executive producers of the film they had no input into the casting whatsoever.”

Now, Peter Jackson fills in the gaps. In his new rebuttal, which came out Friday morning, Mr. Jackson includes his wife in a detailed explanation of exactly how decisions are made in Hollywood—through a studio funnel. Although, directors may come up with requested cast members, there are a number people who must check off on an actor or actress. During the decision-making process, a negative comment or, in Mr. Jackson’s case, hearing that someone has had “bad experiences” with a potential cast member can ruin her chances for getting the part. The rebuttal clarifies the fact by saying, “Fran Walsh was in the same meeting, and remembers these negative comments about Ashley and Mira as clearly as I do. We have no reason to make it up.”

What is not clear, is the nebulous nature of casting and the criteria with which actors and actresses are chosen. Also, up for debate, the complicit nature of those who answered questions, made crucial business decisions and were extensions of the Harvey Weinstein web.