Game of Thrones star Jason Momoa apologises for 'tasteless' rape joke in wake of Harvey Weinstein allegations

Mamoa said he was "severely disappointed" with himself
Sorry: Actor Jason Momoa has apologised
Kevin Winter/Getty
Emma Powell13 October 2017
The Weekender

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Game of Thrones actor Jason Momoa has today apologised for making a "distasteful" rape joke in light of the sexual misconduct allegations against Harvey Weinstein.

Momoa spoke out after a video resurfaced showing him telling a crowd at Comic-Con in 2011 that he likes fantasy roles as it allows him to "rape beautiful women."

The actor, who was playing Kahl Drogo in Game of Thrones at the time, said: "But as far as sci-fi and fantasy, I love that genre because there are so many things you can do, like rip someone's tongue out of their throat and get away with it, and rape beautiful women."

Momoa has since apologised for the comment, saying he is "severely disappointed" in himself after he faced a barrage of criticism online.

In a statement on Instagram he said: "I awoke in Australia to the justified reactions by many people to a distasteful joke I made years ago in Hall H for which I am sorry. I am still severely disappointed in myself at the insensitivity of my remarks to that day.

"I know my sincerest apology now won't take away those hurtful words. Rape and sexual harassment can reach anyone and I have seen first hand its painful torment among members of my own family and friends.

"I made a truly tasteless comment. It is unacceptable and I sincerely apologize with a heavy heart for the words I said. All apologies, Jason."

It comes days after Ben Affleck apologised for 'groping' US actress Hilarie Burton after a fan reminded her of the alleged incident on TRL in 2003.

Affleck is among a plethora of stars who have publicly condemned Weinstein who has flown to Arizona for therapy and could face charges.

The Batman actor said he was left "saddened and angry" by the allegations, while British actress Emma Thompson branded him a "predator".

Weinstein has unequivocally denied all allegations of non consensual sex.

In a statement his spokesperson Sallie Hofmeister said: “Any allegations of non-consensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr. Weinstein.

“Mr. Weinstein has further confirmed that there were never any acts of retaliation against any women for refusing his advances.”

Weinstein pleaded for a second chance after telling reporters outside his daughter’s home that he was “not doing OK”.

Speaking to TMZ he said: “I'm hanging in I'm trying my best. I'm not doing Ok but I'm trying.

“I gotta get help guys. You know what, we all make mistakes… Second chance I hope.”

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