Harvey Weinstein, a former Hollywood film producer, suffered heart failure while in jail approximately two weeks ago, according to reports.
Weinstein was housed at the Rikers Island prison facility in New York City when the incident occurred, which also involved him suffering from pneumonia at the time.
Weinstein was being held in the Queens jail complex as he awaited sentencing for a 2025 sexual assault conviction, with his sentence expected to be handed down in September.
Weinstein's medical issue began with difficulty breathing, prompting his transfer to Bellevue Hospital Prison Ward in Manhattan, where he received treatment, including an IV, heart monitor, and antibiotics for his pneumonia.
Weinstein was a prominent figure in Hollywood, having produced films such as Shakespeare in Love, Pulp Fiction, and Gangs of New York, as well as serving as an executive producer for Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.
Weinstein's downfall came as he faced numerous allegations of sexual misconduct, with over 100 women accusing him of either sexual harassment or assault, including Rose McGowan, Ashley Judd, Mira Sorvino, Salma Hayek, and Gwyneth Paltrow.
The global social awareness movement, sparked by Weinstein's behaviour, aims to combat sexual abuse, assault, and rape culture.
