The article’s co-writer, Chloe Melas, is among Freeman’s accusers, saying the actor made inappropriate comments to her while she was pregnant and interviewing him at a press junket for Going In Style. The reporter alleges Freeman said "I wish I was there” while repeatedly looking her body up and down and adding “You are ripe".
Of the 16 people in CNN’s report, eight said they had experienced harassment or inappropriate behaviour, while eight reported witnessing conduct of that nature.
The 80-year-old actor has apologised in a statement released by his publicist and published by Variety.
"Anyone who knows me or has worked with me knows I am not someone who would intentionally offend or knowingly make anyone feel uneasy," Freeman said.
“I apologise to anyone who felt uncomfortable or disrespected - that was never my intent."
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