Chloe Melas, a CNN reporter, recently shared that she was sexually harassed by Morgan Freeman. Melas, along with An Phung, released a CNN report that claimed eight women were sexually harassed by Freeman.
Freeman responded to the claims by initially apologizing following the report. “Anyone who knows me or has worked with me knows I am not someone who would intentionally offend or knowingly make anyone feel uneasy. I apologize to anyone who felt uncomfortable or disrespected — that was never my intent,” he released in a statement to CNN.
After the article was released, Freeman began facing backlash. VISA suspended his campaign and the SAG Awards considered removing Freeman’s lifetime achievement award. His career appeared to be over.
Melas decided to release a video clip on CNN’s “New Day” where she claims Freeman harassed her during a press junket. In the clip, Freeman’s co-star, Michael Caine spoke about meeting Melas and making an embarrassing statement. Freeman responded by saying, “I wish I was there.” For some reason, Melas viewed the comment as sexual. It appeared as if Freeman was speaking to Caine.
Freeman made another statement by saying, “All victims of assault and harassment deserve to be heard. And we need to listen to them. But it is not right to equate horrific incidents of sexual assault with misplaced compliments or humor. I admit that I am someone who feels a need to try to make women—and men—feel appreciated and at ease around me. As part of that, I would often try to joke with and compliment women, in what I thought was a light-hearted and humorous way.”
Since the video clip was released, Melas has been blasted on social media for making the sexual harassment claim against Freeman.
Why tf is @Chloe_Melas lying on national television about being sexually harassed by Morgan Freeman. Then had the nerve to show the video she claimed she was harassed in. White people be reaching to the moon and back for some damn attention. pic.twitter.com/t2KlYnb2VR
— controversial muslim 🇵🇷 (@disputablechris) May 24, 2018
I just can’t believe that not a single person at @CNN or @NewDay watched that @Chloe_Melas video and didn’t think to tell her that Morgan Freeman was talking about Michael Caine and not her. Way to play the victim, @Chloe_Melas
— kD (@korenthians) May 25, 2018
For those saying what does any lady gain from tarnishing a man’s image, well Chloe Melas who is spear-heading the sexual accusations against Morgan Freeman has serious ulterior motive for slandering Morgan Freeman name. pic.twitter.com/naXzrkm5PQ
— Eph_em (@pharmow) May 25, 2018
Sorry I took that as Morgan Freeman joking about what Michael Caine said …that he wished he were there to see him embarrass himself ….this is a stretch
— leslee martin (@missrx) May 25, 2018
You just retweeted proof that you were not sexually harassed and that he was talking to Michael Caine. You should be ashamed of yourself.
— plizzle (@lethal4523) May 25, 2018
the only person that should be suspended is you, from ever working in this industry again. This is NOT a good look on you. #resign
— Jason (@jasonashville) May 25, 2018
And you’re proud of this because? You’re just like the #CarolynBryant, the white woman who lied on #EmmettTill and had him lynched
— Mea Culpa (@LaCreoleGriot) May 26, 2018
