Brendan Fraser Alleges Groping Incident by H.F.P.A.
Member in 2003 Led to Depression
In a recent development, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (H.F.P.A.)
responded to Brendan Fraser's claims of being groped by one of its members back in 2003.
Fraser disclosed in an interview with GQ that the alleged incident involving former H.F.P.A.
president Philip Berk had a profound impact on him, resulting in his withdrawal from the entertainment industry due to depression.
The H.F.P.A.
issued a statement on February 23, addressing Fraser's accusations and asserting that they were previously unaware of the allegations.
They emphasized their stance against s–ual harassment and affirmed their commitment to investigating the matter further to gather additional details surrounding the incident involving Fraser and Berk.
During the 1990s and early 2000s, Brendan Fraser was a prominent figure in Hollywood, starring in various successful films such as The Mummy, The Quiet American, and Crash.
However, as time progressed, Fraser's presence in the industry dwindled, prompting speculation about his sudden absence from the spotlight.
Recalling the distressing encounter at an H.F.P.A.
luncheon held at the Beverly Hills Hotel, Fraser recounted how Berk allegedly groped him while bidding farewell.
Describing the incident, Fraser detailed how Berk's inappropriate actions left him feeling violated and distressed, leading to a sense of self-blame and unhappiness that ultimately contributed to his mental health struggles.
Expressing his emotional turmoil following the incident, Fraser shared that he was overwhelmed with feelings of vulnerability and helplessness, likening his state of mind to that of a child facing a traumatic experience.
His immediate reaction was to confide in his then-wife, Afton, about the distressing encounter, seeking solace and support in the aftermath of the incident.
Despite contemplating going public with the allegations, Fraser decided against it, preferring not to confront the emotional repercussions or have the incident define his public persona.
Instead, he opted for a written apology from the H.F.P.A., seeking acknowledgment and remorse from Berk for his actions.
In response to Fraser's claims, Philip Berk refuted the allegations, labeling Fraser's account as a fabrication and maintaining his innocence in the matter.
Berk acknowledged sending a letter to Fraser expressing regret but stopped short of admitting any wrongdoing, offering a generic apology that fell short of Fraser's expectations.
The revelations made by Brendan Fraser shed light on the complex dynamics within the entertainment industry and the enduring impact of incidents of harassment and misconduct.
Fraser's decision to speak out serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing such issues and seeking accountability to foster a safe and respectful environment for all individuals involved in the industry.
