Avi Lerner, Millennium Films CEO, surprised the industry when he announced that Bryan Singer would still direct their Red Sonja film despite the director’s recent sexual misconduct allegations. However, it appears that the studio has reconsidered their earlier position. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Red Sonja has been placed on indefinite hold.
Last month, Singer was the subject of an expose detailing sexual abuse allegations spanning more than 20 years. THR notes that he hasn’t officially been relieved as Red Sonja‘s director, but the film is no longer in active development. Lerner’s initial response to the article called it “agenda driven fake news.” However, Lerner later said that the statement was penned by a PR professional and that he approved it without reading it.
RELATED: Bryan Singer Will Still Direct Red Sonja Despite Allegations
Lerner attempted some damage control in a subsequent interview with THR. “I don’t want to apologize,” said Lerner. “I just want to clarify [the statement] I think victims should be heard and this allegation should be taken very, very seriously.”
He continued, “I just don’t agree to judge by the Twitter. I want [the accused] to be judged by the court.”
The allegations against Singer have caused his latest effort, Bohemian Rhapsody, to take a substantial hit during awards season. GLAAD recently revoked the movie’s Outstanding Film nomination at their annual Media Awards.
You can share your thoughts on Millennium Films’ decision to shelve Red Sonja in the comment section below.
