In a recent revelation, actor and advocate Tommy Rivers has publicly identified his alleged assailant, declaring, “I will not be shamed.” A few weeks ago, Rivers took to social media to recount his experience of sexual assault, emphasizing that while there is an ongoing cultural shift regarding how women are treated in these situations, men can also be victims.
Details of the Incident
During a segment on a morning talk show, Rivers named his alleged attacker as Marcus Vance, a prominent figure in the film industry and head of the motion picture division at a major talent agency. In his earlier tweets, Rivers had refrained from naming the individual, instead describing the unsettling encounter with the powerful executive who groped him at a public event.
In his conversation with host Michael Lane, Rivers detailed the incident, stating, “I was assaulted by Marcus Vance, who oversees one of the largest talent agencies globally.” He noted that Vance represents several high-profile actors, including icons like Jason Statham and Jennifer Aniston, claiming, “He’s connected to nearly everyone I know in the industry. Yet, I had never even spoken to him before that night.”
The Encounter
Rivers recounted that during a Hollywood gathering last February, he encountered Vance, who approached him with inappropriate gestures. “I thought it was a joke at first,” Rivers recalled, “but then he came up to me and squeezed my genitals. I was in shock, saying, ‘What are you doing?’ and he just laughed.”
The disturbing nature of the incident was compounded by the fact that it occurred in front of Rivers’ wife, leaving him feeling deeply objectified and emasculated. “I pushed him away, and he stumbled into other guests, still giggling,” Rivers expressed. “I felt horrified.”
Seeking Support
After the incident, Rivers sought support from a friend, urging him to intervene. “Every morning, I question if this really happened,” he admitted, a sentiment that resonates with many survivors of sexual assault who grapple with disbelief after such traumatic events.
Rivers credited his wife’s calming presence for preventing him from reacting violently. “She told me, ‘I’m proud of you,’ which meant so much,” he stated. “Had I retaliated, I would likely face severe consequences, especially as a Black man in America.”
Consequences and Reflection
In light of the allegations, Vance has been placed on leave from his position, but he has yet to issue a public statement in response to the claims. Rivers revealed that fear of career repercussions had kept him silent for too long, noting that abusers often exploit their power to silence their victims. He described Vance’s demeanor during the encounter as one that conveyed a “who would believe you?” attitude, reinforcing his fears.
“I will not be shamed. I did nothing wrong,” Rivers concluded, standing firm in his truth.
Further Reading
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In summary, actor Tommy Rivers bravely named his alleged assailant, Marcus Vance, sharing his experience of sexual assault and emphasizing the need for acknowledgment of male victims. Despite fears of career repercussions, Rivers stands firm in his truth, asserting that he will not be shamed.