After the explosive interviews with two prominent Me too opinion leaders and the broadcast of the Helen show, anyone attuned to public sentiment could discern the trajectory of public opinion. The incident involving Pitt and Ben had served as a prelude to these developments. The path ahead had become evident.
Contrary to everyone's expectations, it was Gwyneth Paltrow who broke the silence first.
After having confronted Pitt and her two former boyfriends, she emerged to condemn Harvey Weinstein. She recounted numerous instances of harassment, describing how she had been coerced into visiting hotels to provide massages, and the resourcefulness she employed to escape these terrifying encounters.
From conventional newspapers to television networks, from the vast expanses of the Internet to emerging social media platforms, the news about Harvey Weinstein inundated every channel.
The entertainment industry had unanimously turned against Harvey.
"Hollywood's arch-villain!"
"Victims of Harvey Weinstein's sexual assaults!"
"Harvey is a malignancy in the industry."
Similar headlines proliferated endlessly.
At Los Angeles International Airport, Rose McGowan disembarked from her flight, hailed a taxi, and directed it straight to the police station.
The actress from "Planet Terror" had yearned for this moment for far too long.
Harvey had disregarded her, ridiculing her for not being attractive enough, for lacking sufficient skill, and for having the scent of body odor.
It had become unbearable!
The road leading to the Beverly Police Department teemed with onlookers on both sides. Hundreds of media reporters had congregated, and television broadcast trucks from Warner TV, NBC, and CNN lined the street.
Rose McGowan had halted her taxi a bit early. As she exited the vehicle, she raised her voice and declared, "I am a victim of Harvey Weinstein! ME TOO! I was sexually assaulted by Harvey Weinstein!"
The cameras in the reporters' hands pivoted with uncanny speed, capturing her every word.
Rose McGowan invoked Me Too slogan and strode confidently toward the police station's entrance.
Though not an A-lister, she was a familiar face to entertainment journalists. Many recognized her from her multiple collaborations with Miramax and Weinstein Pictures.
Surrounded by reporters, Rose McGowan entered the police station and officially reported to the LAPD that she had been raped by Harvey.
Meanwhile, Harvey's legal team and associates were diligently working on securing his bail, intending to regain control of the situation.
However, just as the procedures were nearing completion, a representative from the police station delivered a stunning update, stating, "I'm sorry, but there have been new developments in the case. Mr. Weinstein cannot be released on bail at this time."
Lombardo, Harvey's lawyer, demanded, "Why?"
The attorney took a stern stance, insisting, "This constitutes a violation of my client's lawful rights and interests…"
But the police officer interjected, "Please allow me to explain further. Another victim has just arrived at the police station, reporting a crime and providing substantial evidence. Mr. Weinstein must remain in custody temporarily and cooperate with our ongoing investigation."
Lombardo, realizing the gravity of the situation, attempted to make some heated remarks, but his efforts were futile.
Desperate, Lombardo once again tried to reach the politicians in California who had received their financial backing. To his dismay, his personal calls went unanswered. He dialed the office number, only to be informed that they were currently unavailable, possibly traveling.
In the past, Lombardo had believed that the Weinstein brothers were surrounded by influential allies.
Now, all those allies seemed to have vanished.
Beverly Hills, Ritz-Carlton Hotel.
Léa Seydoux meticulously inspected her personal belongings one last time, ensuring the storage disk containing the crucial video and audio recordings was safely nestled in her bag.
Martin, positioned by the window, was on the phone. After concluding the call, he announced, "Today, two victims went to the police station to file reports: Rose McGowan and Aisha Argento."
Léa Seydoux inquired, "Aisha Argento, the Italian model and actress?"
Martin affirmed, "Yes, they've accused Harvey of serious offenses."
Léa Seydoux picked up her bag and declared, "It's my turn now."
Martin assured her, "The hotel car is waiting at the door. Don't worry; he won't escape justice this time."
"Thank you." Léa Seydoux moved closer and planted a grateful kiss on Martin's cheek. She spoke with sincerity, "You've given me the opportunity to reclaim my dignity."
Martin encouraged her, saying, "It's your bravery that led you down this path."
With determination, Léa Seydoux left the room without hesitation, descended the staircase, exited the hotel, slid into the waiting car, and headed straight for the Beverly Police Department.
Meanwhile, Martin returned to Davis Studios in Burbank.
Shortly after, Louise entered Martin's office with some exciting news, exclaiming, "Kelly just informed me that Senator Erica has given an interview, addressing the Harvey incident specifically. It's about to air; come watch it on CNN."
Bruce seized the remote control, powered on the television, and tuned it to CNN.
As the clock struck the appointed hour, CNN's news broadcast commenced, and Martin's gaze was immediately drawn to the screen.
Senator Erica, hailing from Georgia, and a long-time advocate for women's rights, was the center of attention. She had chosen to focus on Harvey Weinstein during her recent rally.
She stated emphatically, "I am profoundly saddened by the recent news updates. Harvey Weinstein's behavior is inexcusable! His treatment of vulnerable and talented young women is unacceptable under any circumstances. We must enforce a zero-tolerance policy against such despicable behavior that degrades women's dignity, be it anywhere in the world or any workplace!"
Erica appeared visibly impassioned and even took a sip from her pink water bottle mid-speech. She continued, "I call upon the federal and California judicial systems to conduct a thorough investigation into this matter."
Hilarie, too, stepped forward, publicly condemning Harvey Weinstein's actions.
Simultaneously, a press conference unfolded in front of San Francisco City Hall, with Mayor Gavin in attendance, accompanied by his wife, Jennifer Siebel.
In the presence of numerous reporters, Jennifer courageously recounted her own experience of being assaulted by Harvey in 2005. She declared her intent to file a report with the Los Angeles police, pledging her full cooperation and providing any evidence she possessed.
Jennifer also addressed Me Too, urging other victims to come forward and unite their voices against sexual abuse and oppression. She proclaimed, "I understand the tremendous difficulty in speaking out against such heinous acts, but we must stand together and make sure our voices are heard. This is the strength of women, and it's our power!"
Gavin embraced his wife tightly, facing the media cameras with resolve. He stated, "I wholeheartedly support my wife and stand with her through hardship and pain because I believe in the triumph of justice. I will do everything in my power to assist her, aid all the victims, and secure the fairness and justice they deserve!"
Previously perceived as a playboy and unfaithful husband, Gavin now exhibited unwavering support for his wife, portraying himself as brave, upright, family-oriented, and responsible.
The response was met with resounding applause.
Gavin wasn't merely making statements; he was actively mobilizing his political and media resources.
This had transcended a mere legal case; it had evolved into a social movement sweeping across the United States.
Gavin, Erica, and Hilary, seasoned political players, recognized the political advantages to be gained from this movement.
They all joined in.
As the walls of resistance crumbled, there was no need for further pushing. All that remained was to cast the shattered remnants into the abyss and reduce them to dust.
The lawyer had realized that securing bail for Harvey was becoming an increasingly formidable challenge.
The police station buzzed with activity as an influx of victims came to report their grievances, and the LAPD, following procedures, demanded Harvey's cooperation in their ongoing investigation.
The turmoil extended far beyond the police station, engulfing the entirety of Hollywood, Los Angeles, and the entire American entertainment industry.
Reporters were electrified by the unfolding Harvey case. As they delved deeper into it, they unearthed a news angle that would captivate the public's attention—interviewing Harvey's former close associates and allowing them to voice their thoughts on the matter.
This fresh twist promised endless intrigue and guaranteed to satiate the appetite of the gossip-hungry audience.
Consequently, paparazzi besieged the residences and workplaces of Hollywood luminaries such as Quentin Tarantino, Robert Rodriguez, Matt Damon, George Clooney, Nicole Kidman, Judi Dench, and Meryl Streep.
Meryl, once closely linked with Harvey, was the first to break ranks. This actress, who had once publicly exclaimed, "Harvey, my God," not only publicly severed ties with him but vehemently condemned Harvey's shameless conduct. She called for his severe punishment.
Judi Dench, who had a tattoo of Harvey's name on her posterior, erased the tattoo with an air of indifference. She claimed ignorance of Harvey's nefarious actions and pledged never to collaborate with him again. She offered her full support to Mi Rabbit, and more.
Members of the Foot Gang, including Quentin, Rodriguez, and Matt Damon, distanced themselves from Harvey without resistance. Yet, they professed ignorance regarding his actions.
In stark contrast, Charlize Theron's statements during an interview resonated with sincerity. "I'm not at all surprised by Harvey's actions," she asserted, revealing that she had been subjected to his advances. She highlighted the long-standing trend of such behavior in Hollywood. Charlize Theron issued a specific warning, "I've cautioned some actresses to be cautious when working with him. If he invites you to the Four Seasons Hotel, it's best not to go." Within days, Hollywood's stars had taken sides, with nearly everyone opposing Harvey Weinstein.
Over 50 victims had already reported to the Los Angeles police, among them well-known figures like Aisha Argento and Rose McGowan.
Statements and endorsements from Erica, Hilarie, Gavin, and Jennifer had practically sealed Harvey's fate, both politically and publicly.
But the most astonishing twist was yet to come.
The Weinstein Films called a press conference following a board meeting, and their spokesperson announced the board's unanimous resolution.
In light of Harvey Weinstein's actions, the board of directors had voted to oust him from the board and strip him of all positions within The Weinstein Films.
Bob Weinstein was named as the new chairman and CEO of The Weinstein Films!
As this news reached Harvey through his lawyer while he remained in custody due to the continuous stream of victims, the movie mogul, who had spent two decades in Hollywood, appeared to have aged three.
"How could he do this? How could he do this?"
Bob's betrayal struck Harvey harder than Georgina's betrayal, leaving him utterly bewildered. He pleaded, "Why did Bob do this? Why?"
No one could provide an answer, and even Harvey's lawyer believed that his client's fate was sealed.