In a recent interview with Variety, the legendary Goldie Hawn shared a powerful story about standing up to Harvey Weinstein, a man notorious for his abusive behavior in Hollywood. Hawn recounted a time when Weinstein tried to undermine her and Madonna during the production of the Broadway musical adaptation, Chicago, in the late 1980s.
Weinstein’s production company, Miramax, had plans to bring Chicago to the big screen, with Hawn cast as Velma Kelly and Madonna as Roxie Hart. However, things took a turn when Weinstein commissioned an alternate script that portrayed a younger Velma, a role that Hawn, who was two decades older, was no longer considered for.
“Harvey sabotaged Madonna and me,” Hawn revealed. Undeterred, she confronted Weinstein, issuing a firm warning: “Don’t mess with me. I know exactly what you’re up to.” Eventually, the two reached an agreement, but unfortunately, the film fell apart.
But as they say, justice has its own way of prevailing. The film was later reworked with Renée Zellweger as Roxie and Catherine Zeta-Jones as Velma, and it went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture the following year.
Fortunately, Hawn did receive the agreed-upon payment from Weinstein, which brought her more than just financial satisfaction. “When you stand up to a bully, you occasionally win,” she asserted. “But you know what’s better than the money? It’s the restoration of my trust in morality and decency.”
Reflecting on Weinstein’s current circumstances, Hawn expressed her belief in karma. Weinstein is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence in Los Angeles and New York for his sexual assault crimes. His actions have sparked a reckoning in Hollywood, as more survivors have come forward to share their stories.
Weinstein, speaking from prison, acknowledged the positivity of Hawn’s experience on the set of Chicago. He stated, “Acting parts were always chosen based on what was best for the movie, aesthetically and financially. I’m proud of what we achieved with Chicago, and I’m grateful that Goldie had a positive experience and the strength to speak out in this climate. I simply say thank you.”
Goldie Hawn’s story serves as a reminder that standing up to bullies can bring about positive change. Her courage in confronting Weinstein not only empowered her but also inspired others to speak out against abuse in the entertainment industry.
