Opening statements have started in the retrial of Harvey Weinstein, five years after his original conviction marked a significant moment in the #MeToo movement. Prosecutor Shannon Lucey presented the case against Weinstein, emphasizing his previous power in Hollywood and alleging that he exploited "dream opportunities" to assault three women. Weinstein is charged with raping one accuser and forcing oral sex on two others.
The retrial is a result of an appeals court overturning Weinstein’s 2020 conviction, which found him guilty on multiple charges related to sexual assault. The current proceedings are taking place in the same Manhattan courthouse as the first trial, with some accusers from that trial expected to testify again. Notably, Weinstein faces an additional accusation from a woman not involved in the previous case.
This retrial is occurring in a cultural context different from that of the initial trial, which coincided with heightened public discourse surrounding #MeToo. The jury this time is composed of seven women and five men, contrasting with the previous panel of seven men and five women. Additionally, a new judge presides over the case.
Weinstein has pleaded not guilty to all charges, maintaining his innocence regarding the allegations. His defense strategy has adjusted, incorporating new legal counsel, including Jennifer Bonjean, who previously achieved a successful appeal for Bill Cosby.
As jury selection unfolded, discussions around #MeToo arose, with potential jurors expressing varying perspectives on the movement. While some acknowledged its significance, others voiced concerns regarding its implications. The retrial is being prosecuted by the Manhattan district attorney's Special Victims Division, which specializes in sexual assault cases.