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Russell Simmons defends Taraji P. Henson’s Bali visit, lists contributions to Black groups

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Russell Simmons defends Taraji P. Henson's Bali visit, lists contributions to Black groups

As a seasoned movie critic with over three decades of experience under my belt, I have seen it all – the rise and fall of Hollywood icons, the scandals that rock the industry, and the unwavering resilience of those who refuse to be silenced. Russell Simmons is no stranger to any of these, and his latest defensive stance against critics questioning Taraji P. Henson’s association with him is a testament to both their enduring spirit and the power dynamics that still plague our society.

Russell Simmons has responded defensively following accusations that criticized actress Taraji P. Henson for spending time at his Bali resort with him, a figure who is currently facing criticism.

66-year-old Simmons asked them to stop the controversy, which started when he shared a picture with “The Color Purple” actress in Indonesia. Many people expressed their disapproval towards Henson for socializing with an individual who is accused of sexual misconduct.

For years, the co-founder of Def Jam Recordings has faced accusations of sexual misconduct, rape, and defamation. Recently, he’s been named in sexual assault and defamation lawsuits filed in February. However, rather than addressing these specific issues, he addressed a different topic in his video response on Instagram Live this week. He criticized Black people who condemn him while supporting former President Trump. Additionally, he highlighted his accomplishments for the Black community and denied allegations that he’s hiding to avoid legal repercussions.

“Remember, I managed to release 10,000 African-American individuals from prison? And revolutionized the factory farming sector for good? And helped register a significant number of you to vote, possibly more than anyone else you’re familiar with?,” he pointed out.

Simmons mentioned that he’s been part of Black Lives Matter and various other movements advocating for our community, as well as organizations focused on women’s rights and the LGBTQ+ community.

“He said, ‘Stop trying to tarnish my reputation in such a way that my friends can’t come see me without you harassing them, yet you stand beside Donald Trump? Stop it.’ He continued, ‘I’ll be in New York next week. The notion that I’m hiding is foolish. I summon the paparazzi whenever I’m there myself. I have an office on Wilshire Boulevard and spend a lot of time there. I sometimes work from New York, but I reside here – in fact, I live here to help people.'”

As a passionate movie buff who finds tranquility in the exotic landscapes of Bali, I’ve made this paradise my second home by establishing the Gds Bali Health and Wellness Resort. Last summer and recently this month, the enchanting Henson graced our property with her presence, an experience for which I am deeply grateful. R&B sensation Usher also visited our resort during his honeymoon in March, facing a wave of similar admiration.

“When you have friends like Taraji P. Henson, consider yourself incredibly fortunate! The former music executive expressed this on August 12, posting a picture from Henson’s visit. ‘Gdas is a place where everyone comes for healing, but some people radiate healing energy – and you, @tarajiphenson, are one of those. You bring joy to everyone just by being there. I adore you, dear girl… Overjoyed that you’re home safely now… Yet already missed… Until we meet again, my love… Only love… A postscript: you mean so much to countless people – continue inspiring us all!!'”

Instead of praising his photo, some of Simmons’ admirers criticized both him and Henson with personal insults.

One user said, “Isn’t he fleeing U.S. accusations?” To this, another responded, “He isn’t evading anything; he constructed a resort in Bali instead.”

1. “Let’s remember that he is abroad for a reason and there are no signs of him returning.” (Paraphrasing the first sentence)

In 2018, Simmons relocated to Bali amidst accusations of rape, sexual harassment, and inappropriate conduct. He maintains his innocence, stating that this move does not equate to evading legal proceedings, as per reports from Complex magazine.

In a February lawsuit, Simmons faced accusations of sexual assault once more, this time from a former Def Jam music video producer who claimed he raped her in his Manhattan apartment during the 1990s. Additionally, in Bali that same month, Simmons received legal papers related to a defamation suit filed against him by writer, producer, and activist Drew Dixon.

Simmons shared with AllHipHop in May that it becomes frustrating when people imply he can’t return home, even though he’s there frequently. Over time, the repetition of this untrue narrative wears him down. He is constantly in Los Angeles, New York, and Miami, and has never felt unsafe in America.

But Simmons’ response to the Henson backlash Tuesday didn’t sit well with many.

In a response, user @nwonewssparrow asked Russell to be quiet, having recently shared an old photo of Simmons and Trump together.

As a film enthusiast, I find myself taken aback by this situation: “Hollywood and their Democratic allies seem to have turned against Russell Simmons – yet instead of challenging them, he lays blame on the Black community… Whoa!” That’s what @HarrietEve9 expressed on Twitter.

“It makes you look more guilty,” read a gif that another user posted.

On Wednesday, neither Henson nor Simmons’ representatives provided a prompt response to The Times when asked for comments.

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2024-08-22 00:31

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