Bryan Singer withdraws from X-Men promo over ‘completely false’ claims he abused 17-year-old
Gay Hollywood director Bryan Singer has broken his silence on claims that he abused a 17-year-old, labelling the accusations “outrageous, vicious and completely false”.
In a statement released today, he announced he was cancelling all his planned media appearances for upcoming film X-Men: Days of Future Past, slated for release on May 22.
The statement read: “The allegations against me are outrageous, vicious and completely false.
“I do not want these fictitious claims to divert ANY attention from ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past’. This fantastic film is a labour of love and one of the greatest experiences of my career.
“So, out of respect to all of the extraordinary contributions from the incredibly talented actors and crew involved, I’ve decided not to participate in the upcoming media events for the film.
“However, I promise when this situation is over, the facts will show this to be the sick twisted shake down it is.
“I want to thank fans, friends and family for all their amazing and overwhelming support.”
The alleged victim, Michael Egan, is seeking more than $75,000 (£44,500) for each of the four charges, listed as battery, assault, invasion of privacy and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Singer, 48, is one of the most successful gay directors in Hollywood, and has directed three instalments in the lucrative X-Men franchise, beginning with the first X-Men film in 2000.
