The allegations of sexual abuse against me are full of significant inaccuracies, mischaracterization, and fabrications. To be clear, I have always sought to treat people with respect and dignity and I have never abused, assaulted nor taken advantage of anyone. I have been fortunate enough to encounter countless people in my 65-year career from all walks of life and there has never been any complaint or inquiry into my behaviour. I have always worked as an independent artist and, following the revolution, have earned my living not through credits and connections to the state but through my art.
Treating people with kindness, warmth, and empathy is core to my character, but I am not a perfect man. If my behaviour or actions have at any time brought discomfort or distress to anyone that has crossed paths with me, I deeply apologize. I believe that it’s the duty of men in my position to take responsibility for their actions, learn from them, and most importantly, set an example. I and my family always have and always will stand by women and champion the importance of equality everywhere, and especially in Iran.
In regards to disparagements against my academy, we are proud that the academy was representative of the different segments of Iranian society. Students from religious conservative backgrounds were welcomed and worked side-by-side with students from liberal families. More than 150 of these students have so far attested to the safe, constructive and professional environment of that academy in a publicly released statement.
Lastly, in light of this experience and these accusations, I want to undeniably affirm my support of women in Iran, around the world, and specifically the #MeToo movement. While this experience has been beyond challenging, and with complexities that have often been overlooked, it has given rigor to a much-needed conversation around equality, consent, and accountability, that we must examine at every level. Just as my art has spoken to the delicate nature of individuality, destruction, fairness, and the human soul, I endeavor to use this situation to do the same. I am a deep believer in agency and individual choice, but human relationships are a sensitive balancing act. I’m thankful to be able to understand and talk about the depths of my responsibility as a human being.