Beverly, Massachusetts – Acclaimed actor Richard Dreyfuss is facing criticism following a Q&A event at The Cabot, a performing arts center in Beverly, tied to a screening of the iconic movie “Jaws.” Dreyfuss, known for his role in the 1975 blockbuster, made controversial remarks about women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and diversity during the event. The venue issued an apology after the incident, which had been advertised as “An evening with Richard Dreyfuss” to coincide with the film screening.
At the event, Dreyfuss, 76, donned a dress and proceeded to make derogatory comments about various groups, prompting some audience members to walk out. Among the topics that stirred controversy were Dreyfuss’ remarks regarding women in film, the #MeToo movement, LGBTQ+ rights, and the Academy Awards’ diversity initiatives. The actor had previously expressed his disdain for the academy’s efforts towards inclusivity.
Despite receiving applause for his book reference towards the end of the discussion, where he expressed concerns about the lack of civics education, Dreyfuss’s comments left many patrons unsettled. The Cabot later issued an email apology, distancing itself from the actor’s opinions and affirming its commitment to inclusivity and respect.
Following the backlash, The Cabot shared a statement on social media expressing regret over the incident and acknowledging the discomfort caused to many attendees. The venue emphasized its dedication to listening to patrons’ experiences and learning from the event to better fulfill its mission of engaging and inspiring the community.
Dreyfuss had previously come under fire for his comments on inclusion initiatives for the Academy Awards, deeming them distasteful and criticizing the idea of imposing moral standards on artists. The actor’s controversial remarks have reignited discussions on the intersection of art, commerce, and social responsibility in the entertainment industry.
As the incident continues to spark debate, The Cabot remains committed to addressing the concerns raised by the community and evolving to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all patrons.