Harvey Weinstein has been taken to hospital after reportedly suffering acute heart failure while being held at Rikers Island in New York. The disgraced Hollywood producer, 74, is awaiting sentencing for a sexual assault conviction and has been in custody since 2020.
Details of the Medical Emergency
According to reports, Weinstein began experiencing breathing difficulties and was swiftly transferred to Bellevue Hospital Prison Ward in Manhattan. Sources indicate he is undergoing treatment and has been connected to an IV and a heart monitor. He is also reportedly receiving antibiotics after a bout with pneumonia. TMZ reported that Weinstein is feeling better but has not yet been cleared to leave the facility.
Weinstein's History of Health Problems
Weinstein has faced numerous health issues during his incarceration. He previously underwent emergency heart surgery after experiencing chest pains. In 2024, he was hospitalized with pneumonia and Covid-19. Shortly after, he was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia, a type of cancer characterized by the bone marrow producing an excessive number of abnormal blood cells, as described by the National Cancer Institute.
Background on Sexual Assault Allegations
In 2017, more than 100 women came forward with sexual assault and harassment allegations against Weinstein, sparking the global #MeToo movement. He has consistently denied all allegations of non-consensual sex. Notable actresses who have spoken out against him include Cara Delevingne, Salma Hayek, Rose McGowan, Lea Seydoux, Angelina Jolie, Uma Thurman, Heather Graham, and Gwyneth Paltrow.
