Richard Dreyfuss | Photo credit: Richard Shotwell
Richard Dreyfuss, famous actor best known for his role in Steven Spielberg’s film ‘The Man Who Was Going’ JawsMuch controversy arose during the film’s screening in Beverly, Massachusetts. During a Memorial Day weekend event at the Cabot Theatre, Dreyfuss appeared on stage wearing a floral print dress and holding a cane, her actions changing the atmosphere of the evening to what attendees described as extremely disrespectful.
Witnesses reported that the actor’s comments soon turned into a tirade that was deemed transphobic, sexist, and homophobic. Dreyfuss criticized women, made derogatory comments about the #MeToo movement, and questioned the validity of transgender identity. His statements sparked outrage among the audience, leading many to walk out before the film even began.
One attendee expressed their displeasure on Cabot’s Facebook page, and criticized the venue for not checking Dreyfuss’s acting. “How did Cabot not check his acting better?” the post read. “Apparently he’s known for spouting this kind of racist, homophobic, misogynistic nonsense.”
In response to this backlash, Cabot issued a public apology. This statement was shared with attendees and received deadlineemphasized that Dreyfus’s views were inconsistent with the theatre’s values ​​of inclusiveness and respect. Cabot acknowledged this discomfort and took responsibility for not anticipating the controversial direction of Dreyfus’s comments.
Despite the apology, audiences remained disappointed. Some attendees expressed dissatisfaction with not receiving a refund, saying the evening did not have the expected enthusiasm to celebrate the iconic film. One commenter wrote, “This was disrespectful and we demand a refund.”
The incident followed similar comments made earlier by Dreyfus. Jaws The screening in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, reflects a pattern of controversial statements. Dreyfuss, who has previously criticized Oscar inclusivity rules and expressed strong views on gender issues, has not responded publicly to the latest controversy.
