Sean Penn recently shared his thoughts on the ongoing controversy surrounding Woody Allen, particularly regarding the allegations made by Allen’s daughter, Dylan Farrow, who accused him of molestation in 1992. During a May 13 episode of the “Louis Theroux” podcast, Penn expressed his admiration for Allen, stating, “I loved working with him,” referring to their collaboration on the 1999 film “Sweet and Lowdown.” He emphasized that he would be willing to work with Allen again if the opportunity arose.
Penn expressed skepticism about the validity of the allegations, acknowledging the complexity of such accusations. He stated, “With these things, I don’t know anyone well enough to say, ‘100 percent, this didn’t happen, that didn’t happen,’” while also underscoring the importance of ensuring that victims are taken seriously.
He brought attention to the dynamics of the case, mentioning that while he hasn’t thoroughly read about it, the narratives he has encountered seem biased. When Theroux prompted Penn regarding the credibility of Ronan Farrow, Dylan’s brother, who has previously supported her claims, Penn maintained a critical stance, indicating he does not regard Ronan as a “respected” journalist.
Penn questioned the frequency of such accusations, suggesting that a case involving an individual with a history like Allen’s would likely have seen more allegations if they were true. He underscored the idea of “innocent until proven guilty,” implying that without conclusive evidence, he views Allen as innocent and is open to working with him.
Dylan Farrow has remained vocal about her allegations over the years, recounting her experiences in various platforms including a 2014 New York Times op-ed and the HBO docuseries “Allen v. Farrow.” Woody Allen has consistently denied the allegations, asserting that he never engaged in any inappropriate behavior with Dylan.
In light of the ongoing discussions surrounding the Me Too movement, Penn urged listeners to carefully consider the facts before forming opinions, reflecting a general sentiment of caution and the need for thorough investigation in cases of such serious allegations.
The discourse around these allegations highlights the complexities of public opinion, media narratives, and the broader implications for those involved. It’s a reminder of the importance of due process and thoughtful consideration in addressing sensitive matters such as these.