Russell Simmons has fired back at criticisms over his alleged history of sexual misconduct and his friends’ support. Here’s what happened:
- Simmons addressed the backlash against him and his celebrity friends over rape allegations on Instagram Live.
- He highlighted his contributions to social justice, claiming people have forgotten his efforts.
- Simmons expressed frustration over being ‘demonized’ and denied hiding in Bali to evade prosecution.
- He vehemently denied the rape allegations, pointing out he has never been charged.
Russell Simmons has hit back at critics over his alleged history of rape and sexual assault, and the backlash towards celebrities like Usher and Taraji P. Henson for visiting him in Bali.
During an Instagram Live session, Simmons addressed Black people directly, noting his contributions to social justice, including getting 10,000 Black men out of jail and working with various movements.
He questioned why people continue to ‘demonize’ him, making it difficult for his friends to visit him without criticism, especially when some support controversial figures like Donald Trump.
Simmons denied hiding in Bali to avoid prosecution, asserting that he frequently visits New York and calls paparazzi on himself during those trips.
He reiterated his innocence, stating he has never been charged with any crime and has taken multiple lie detector tests to prove it.
Earlier this year, a woman who worked at Def Jam during the 1990s sued Simmons for sexual harassment and rape, accusing him of false imprisonment and battery.
The lawsuit claims Simmons invited her to his apartment under the pretense of work, then assaulted and raped her despite her repeated pleas for him to stop.
Simmons has consistently denied all allegations of sexual assault presented against him.
Russell Simmons remains defiant in the face of ongoing allegations and criticism.
