During a panel event commemorating the 20th anniversary of the film “Wag the Dog,” host Jordan Finch confronted actor Richard Lawson regarding allegations of sexual harassment made against him. The atmosphere was charged, as Finch pressed Lawson about comments he had made in response to accusations from a young woman who was just 17 at the time of the alleged incident.
Finch referred to a piece by Emily Hart, published in The Entertainment Gazette, titled “Richard Lawson Sexually Harassed Me When I Was 17.” Following the article’s release, Lawson issued a statement expressing regret for any discomfort he may have caused, asserting, “I have profound respect for women, and I am sorry if anything I did made her feel uncomfortable. This does not represent who I am.”
It was this very statement that Finch sought to unpack, remarking, “We need to discuss this because it lingers in the air.” A video of the exchange, captured by journalist Sam Rivers, was later edited down from what had originally been a lengthy discussion.
Addressing the Statement
Finch first addressed the line in Lawson’s statement, where he claimed that the incident wasn’t reflective of his character. “That kind of response frustrates me. If it occurred and you’ve provided no evidence to suggest it didn’t, then there was a time when you behaved inappropriately. It’s a copout to say, ‘This isn’t me.’ Doesn’t that feel dismissive?”
Lawson conceded that his statement was an attempt to deflect responsibility, saying, “There’s a key word in my quote, and that is if I did anything inappropriate or embarrassed her, I am sorry.” Such an apology, however, shifts the burden onto the victim, implying that her sensitivity is the issue.
Workplace Culture Justifications
As the discussion continued, Lawson attempted to justify the workplace culture during filming, stating, “On set, you engage in banter. Someone might say, ‘Did you hook up over the weekend?’ It’s just how things were. I made a foolish comment, but it was in the context of a crew that joked around.” He reiterated that the atmosphere felt familial, suggesting that because they were like family, such comments were acceptable.
This notion was met with skepticism from Finch, who replied, “I don’t find that response satisfactory.” Lawson countered, “What do you want me to say?” Finch responded, “It’s not for me to dictate. It just feels like you’re avoiding the core issue. It lacks the self-reflection that this situation requires.”
Misconceptions and Defensive Responses
The conversation illustrated a common misconception where if someone does not take offense, then no one else should, leading to a normalization of disrespectful behavior. At one point, Lawson grew defensive, asking Finch, “Do you truly believe everything you read?” Finch responded affirmatively, emphasizing, “There’s no reason for her to fabricate these claims.”
The discussion reached a poignant moment when Lawson recounted his perspective on a specific incident, saying, “She was upset, so I just went over and patted her shoulder. I thought it was harmless. It seemed like an overreaction to me.” This dismissal of her feelings underscored the disconnect in understanding the impact of his actions.
Conclusion and Call for Change
Finch concluded with a powerful statement regarding the need for cultural change in how interactions occur on set, prompting applause from the audience.
In summary, this exchange between Finch and Lawson highlights the complexities surrounding allegations of sexual harassment and the often inadequate responses from those accused. It serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the need for a shift in workplace culture to foster an environment of respect and understanding.
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