Salma Hayek, a renowned actress, spoke out about her experiences with Harvey Weinstein on the set of the Miramax-produced film “Frida” in a 2017 op-ed for the New York Times.

In her op-ed, Hayek shared her initial excitement about working with Weinstein, whom she viewed as an artist with a true sense of art.

However, she soon became uncomfortable with his constant demands and appearances at her hotel room at odd hours of the night.

Weinstein also made comments on her appearance and s*x appeal, which deeply affected her confidence.

Hayek recalled that he demanded a nude scene involving her and another actor, not for the film’s story but for his own personal wishes.

On the day the scene was to be filmed, Hayek experienced a nervous breakdown and cried uncontrollably.

She explained, “It was not because I would be n/ked with another woman. It was because I would be n/ked with her for Harvey Weinstein. But I could not tell them then.” She had to take a tranquillizer to get through the scene.

Hayek spoke about how difficult it was for her to come forward with her experiences, stating that she initially feared it would damage her career.

However, she felt it was necessary to speak out to support other women who had also been victimized by Weinstein and other powerful men in the entertainment industry.

Weinstein has faced numerous allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse over the years. In 2020, he was found guilty of rape and sexual assault and sentenced to 23 years in prison.

Hayek’s story highlights the pervasive culture of abuse and exploitation in the entertainment industry and the courage it takes to speak out against it.

As she wrote in her op-ed, “I hope that adding my voice to the chorus of those who are finally speaking out will shed light on why it is so difficult, and why so many of us have waited so long.”

Since the #MeToo movement began, many women in the entertainment industry have come forward with their own stories of abuse and harassment, leading to a reckoning in the industry and beyond.

Hayek’s story is just one of many, but it underscores the importance of speaking out and holding powerful men accountable for their actions.

In addition to speaking out about her experiences with Weinstein, Hayek has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and has used her platform to advocate for greater diversity and representation in Hollywood.

She has also been a strong supporter of the Time’s Up movement, which seeks to address harassment and inequality in the workplace.

Hayek’s bravery in sharing her story has helped to shine a light on the pervasive culture of abuse and exploitation in the entertainment industry and has inspired others to come forward with their own experiences.

While there is still much work to be done to create a safer and more equitable industry, the courage of women like Hayek has been instrumental in pushing for change.

As Hayek wrote in her op-ed, “Men sexually harassed because they could. Women are talking today because, in this new era, we finally can.”