US film producer Harvey Weinstein has apologised for causing 'a lot of pain' with his past behaviour following sexual harassment allegations made against him.
The 65-year-old film mogul plans to to take a 'leave of absence' and work with therapists, he confirmed in a statement released by his publicist.
Weinstein has previously denied many of the claims and has not been charged with any crimes.
He's also disputed a New York Times report that claimed he harassed female employees over nearly three decades.
The newspaper has alleged that he has reached at least eight settlements with women.
Weinstein, married to British Marchesa fashion designer Georgina Chapman, also said that when he began working in the movie industry in the 60s and 70s, 'rules about behaviour and workplaces were different'.
In his statement released on Thursday (5 October) and issued to the New York Times, he said: 'I came of age in the 60's and 70's, when all the rules about behaviour and workplaces were different. That was the culture then.
'I have since learned it's not an excuse, in the office - or out of it. To anyone.
'I realised some time ago that I needed to be a better person and my interactions with the people I work with have changed.
'I appreciate the way I've behaved with colleagues in the past has caused a lot of pain, and I sincerely apologise for it.
'Though I'm trying to do better, I know I have a long way to go. That is my commitment. My journey now will be to learn about myself and conquer my demons.'
He continued: 'I've brought on therapists and I plan to take a leave of absence from my company and to deal with this issue head on. I so respect all women and regret what happened.
'I hope that my actions will speak louder than words and that one day we will all be able to earn their trust and sit down together with Lisa (lawyer Lisa Bloom) to learn more.'
Meanwhile, his lawyer Bloom added that Weinstein 'denies many of the accusations as patently false'.
The Oscar-winner co-founded Miramax in 1979 with his brother Bob, which they went on to sell in 1993, before starting up The Weinstein Company in 2005.
Weinstein was also made an honorary CBE for his contribution to the British film industry in 2004.
Naomi Gordon is news writer mainly covering entertainment news with a focus on celebrity interviews and television.
