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A jury has been seated in Harvey Weinstein's rape retrial in New York City, with opening statements delivered on Tuesday. The jury, consisting of seven men and five women, will hear evidence involving sex assault allegations by actress Jessica Mann. This marks the third time a Manhattan jury is hearing evidence in this case.
Weinstein, a former Hollywood mogul, was convicted in 2020 of raping Mann in a hotel room over a decade ago, but that verdict was overturned. His second trial ended in a hung jury regarding Mann's accusations, though he was found guilty of assaulting another woman. Weinstein, now 74, has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The retrial focuses on a 2013 encounter between Weinstein and Mann in a Manhattan hotel. Prosecutors argue that Weinstein used his power to manipulate and control, while his defense claims the case is about consent and regret. Assistant District Attorney Candace White emphasized the power dynamics at play, stating, "Behind closed doors, power meant him taking what he wanted from the victim in this case."
Weinstein's legal team has changed since previous trials, potentially altering the defense strategy. The prosecution seeks to introduce new witnesses, including a close friend of Mann's. Judge Curtis Farber is revisiting aspects of the case, such as the "friends of Harvey" list used for event guest lists.
Weinstein's career collapsed in 2017 amid public accusations of sexual misconduct. He was once an influential figure in Hollywood, producing acclaimed films like 'Pulp Fiction' and 'Shakespeare in Love.' The trial is expected to last about a month.
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