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Nearly 14,000 people have signed a petition calling for the axing of Matt Damon’s cameo in the upcoming Ocean’s 8 movie.
The appeal comes after the actor – who played Linus Caldwell in the original Ocean’s films – made numerous tone deaf comments about sexual harassment and assault.
The all-female reboot of the popular franchise – starring Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Mindy Kahling and Rihanna, to name a few – was meant to be an “empowering film for women” the petition reads.
“But that was before allegations that Matt Damon — who has a well-publicised cameo in Ocean’s 8 — not only ignored but enabled his friend Harvey Weinstein’s inappropriate behaviour by trying to squash a New York Times report in 2004 that detailed instances where Weinstein had used his position as a high-powered studio executive to harass and even assault women.”
The petition called his behaviour “beyond enabling” and “gross” citing his recent comments about working with those accused of sexual misconduct on a “case-by-case” basis.
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“Damon’s inclusion would trivialise the serious nature of the charges against sexual abusers like Weinstein — a show massive disrespect for the brave women speaking out,” it continued.
“It would also send a terrible message about the inevitability of — and lack of accountability for — sexual harassment in the workplace…”
The 49-year-old was slammed for his recent comments made during an interview with America’s ABC News.
“You know, there’s a difference between, you know, patting someone on the butt and rape or child molestation, right? Both of those behaviours need to be confronted and eradicated without question, but they shouldn’t be conflated, right?” Damon said.
Many including Alyssa Milano and his Good Will Hunting co-star Minnie Driver criticised his stance.
RELATED: Alyssa Milano Personally Explained Rape Culture To Matt Damon
