How soon is too soon? The question feels particularly pertinent this week after James Corden was criticised for making a series of jokes about disgraced film producer Harvey Weinstein at a charity event in Los Angeles.
The British comedian began by saying what a beautiful night it was in Los Angeles, adding “so beautiful, Harvey Weinstein has already asked tonight up to his hotel to give him a massage”.
That joke was met with groans, but Corden continued. “It has been weird this week hasn’t it, watching Harvey Weinstein in hot water. Ask any of the women who watched him take a bath […] it’s weird watching Harvey Weinstein in hot water.”
Finally, he said: “Harvey Weinstein wanted to come tonight but he’ll settle for whatever potted plant is closest.”
Many people, including Rose McGowan, who claims that Weinstein raped her, have condemned Corden, who later apologised, saying: “To be clear, sexual assault is no laughing matter. I was not trying to make light of Harvey’s inexcusable behavior, but to shame him, the abuser, not his victims. I am truly sorry for anyone offended, that was never my intention.”
