James Van Der Beek claims he’s been sexually harassed by ‘older, powerful men’

James Van Der Beek is the latest star to speak out about sexual assault following the allegations against Harvey Weinstein.

The movie mogul has been accused of a catalogue of sexual harassment against some of Hollywood’s most famous actresses, and his own employees over the last 20 years.

Stars including Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow and Cara Delevigne have made allegations against the producer, and it’s opened up a dialogue that’s encouraged other stars, both male and female, to speak about their own experiences in the industry.

Former Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek took to Twitter last night to reveal that when he was starting out in Hollywood, he was “cornered” by older men looking to take advantage of him.

He wrote: “I’ve had my ass grabbed by older, powerful men, I’ve had them corner me in inappropriate sexual conversations when I was much younger

“I understand the unwarranted shame, powerlessness & inability to blow the whistle. There’s a power dynamic that feels impossible to overcome.”

I’ve had my ass grabbed by older, powerful men, I’ve had them corner me in inappropriate sexual conversations when I was much younger…

— James Van Der Beek (@vanderjames) October 12, 2017

He went on to explain that he understood why people don’t come forward straight away, and applauded those who have already spoken out about their experiences with Weinstein.

Following the accusations made by a number of Hollywood actresses, a representative for Weinstein said: “Any allegations of non-consensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr Weinstein.”

The movie producer has since been sacked by his own company, and has had his BAFTA membership temporarily suspended until the claims have been investigated.