A few readers have commented about how a plot progression in "Learning Curves" appears to be "ripped from the headlines." [Cue Law & Order 'Dun-Dun' here in your head.]
Although this section of the story was written two to three years ago, the rumors that spawned this particular storyline have been around for a decade or more.
Of course scandals like this aren't new to the industry in question but I can confirm that the plot is based entirely on what is being revealed presently.
If you plan to read "Learning Curves" and don't like spoilers, stop reading now.
OK, for the rest of you …
I am nowhere near a Hollywood insider. I have been to Los Angeles a handful of times and to Hollywood exactly never. I left the newspaper business a decade ago and I no longer have sources - not that I ever had sources for Hollywood gossip. In fact, I think it's been close to 10 years since I stepped foot in a movie theater.
I first heard of Harvey W.'s transgressions while doing research for "Daze in the Valley" way back in 2007-08. During that time I routinely "chatted" with a few Porn Valley starlets so I could create a more realistic feel to the characters. I specifically asked about a "Casting Couch" in the porn industry.
Several confirmed that they had to "audition" with men who would never appear on video in order to get into the business or to move into a "contract" situation. They also told me that the situation wasn't confined to porn but existed in mainstream studios, as well.
At least two and perhaps three specifically mentioned Harvey W. by name and mentioned the names of two specific actresses he accosted. Both of these actresses have come forward in recent days.
In doing research into Randi Raver's character for "A Flawed Diamond" I encountered the rumors again. This time it included not only Harvey W. but others in positions of power in the industry (either major actors or executives).
In "A Flawed Diamond" I wrote a scene where Randi was accosted by a recording industry executive. I named him Weinberg for a specific reason. Brock Miller actually calls him Weinstein only to be corrected by Randi. This was my (not so subtle) acknowledgement of the rumors.
The plot arc in "Learning Curves" was based specifically on the stories I had been told while I was researching.
The charges against Harvey W. are not a revelation.
The fact that it has taken 25 years (and perhaps hundreds of victims) to get attention can be traced directly to the "feudal" system that still pervades the entertainment industry and the bastardization of the news media.
The studios are affiliated with the networks and own TV stations and radio stations and newspapers. The same organizations we trust to give us information have a financial interest in keeping news like this under wraps. It's bullshit and it's part of why I no longer work as a journalist. But I digress.
Harvey W. is a powerful man from a powerful family with powerful friends. A huge portion of the movie industry ran through his hands. His family was royalty in Hollywood.
The victims were scared to come forward. They accepted monetary settlements that included non-disclosure clauses. Their livelihood was reliant upon keeping the King happy.
The excuses run in the hundreds. And they're all bullshit.
People knew - and those people sat silently while new victims were assaulted.
Of course, this is the same industry that glorifies Roman Polanski - who drugged and raped a child.
Think of that the next time you drop $50 at a movie theater.
Me? I think I'll just read a book.