At the Teen Vogue Summit in Playa Vista, Terry Crews shared his reasons for disclosing the molestation he experienced during the #MeToo movement and emphasized the importance of holding his purported attacker, WME agent Adam Venit, accountable.
During the “Man Up: Unpacking Masculinity” panel, the actor delved into toxic masculinity, highlighting the necessity of ensuring responsibility for the actions of those who engage in such behavior.
Crews expressed his belief that men should apologize, acknowledge their faults, and take ownership of their wrongdoings.
He described forgiving his alleged molester but underlined the significance of addressing the issue rather than sweeping it under the rug.
Reflecting on his decision to speak out amid the #MeToo movement, Crews stressed the need for correction and asserted his refusal to be disregarded.
He emphasized that individuals who commit acts of assault cannot simply return to their normal routines without facing consequences.
Crews made it clear that he would not permit his assailant to resume work following the incident.
In response to the assault, Crews terminated his relationship with WME in 2017 and subsequently filed a lawsuit against the agency and Venit.
Following a settlement reached in September, Venit parted ways with WME, with Crews acknowledging the women who initially came forward as his source of inspiration.
The Brooklyn Nine-Nine star disclosed his past entrenchment in toxic masculinity within both the NFL and the entertainment industry, recognizing his complicity in perpetuating harmful behaviors.
Expressing remorse for his previous actions, Crews acknowledged the necessity of self-reflection and accountability, particularly towards his family and those he may have wronged.
Discussing the intersectionality of race and gender, Crews highlighted the support he received from black women and discussed societal expectations placed on black men.
He addressed rapper 50 Cent's skepticism regarding his assault experience, emphasizing that anyone, regardless of stature, can fall victim to assault, advocating for a shift in perceptions within the African-American community.
Crews called for a transformation in Hollywood's portrayal of male roles that glorify violence, suggesting that such depictions could contribute to real-world tragedies like mass shootings.
He urged a departure from narratives that promote aggression and unrealistic heroism, emphasizing the repercussions of perpetuating such ideals.
In conclusion, Crews emphasized the need to challenge prevailing stereotypes and narratives that condone violence and domination, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of masculinity that prioritizes accountability and empathy over aggression and control.
