‘X-Men’ director denies sexually assaulting underage boy
Last week, Hollywood was shocked when allegations arouse that famed X-Men producer Bryan Singer was being sued by a former model, Michael Egan, for allegedly drugging and sexually abusing him during his youth.
Yesterday, Singer finally broke the silence with an official statement of his own, calling the accusations “vicious” and “outrageous.” He also announced his decision to lay low amid the scandal despite obligations to support several promotional events surrounding his latest superhero sequel.
“The allegations against me are outrageous, vicious, and completely false,” Singer, 48, said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter on April 24. “I do not want these fictitious claims to divert ANY attention from X-Men: Days of Future Past. This fantastic film is a labor of love and one of the greatest experiences of my career.”
The statement continued: “So, out of respect to all of the extraordinary contributions from the incredibly talented actors and crew involved, I’ve decided not to participate in the upcoming media events for the film. However, I promise when this situation is over, the facts will show this to be the sick twisted shakedown it is. I want to thank fans, friends, and family for all their amazing and overwhelming support.”
In the lawsuit filed by Eagan, Michael claims that Singer had coerced him into having oral and anal sex when he was 17. The suit continues to allege that Egan was “lured into a sex ring” with promises of mega stardom.
As for Singer’s attorney, Marty Singer (no relation), he is confident that “Bryan will be vindicated in this absurd and defamatory lawsuit.”
“It is obvious that this case was filed in an attempt to get publicity at the time when Bryan’s new movie is about to open in a few weeks,” he continued. – ruthie Hawkins/@ruubabie