Richard Dreyfuss’ appearance at a Massachusetts theatre prior to a screening of 1975 hit “Jaws” went awry when the actor went on a sexist and homophobic rant, prompting the venue to apologize to patrons.
“We deeply regret that Mr. Dreyfuss’ comments during the event were not in line with the values of inclusivity and respect that we uphold at the Cabot,” read a statement from the venue sent to patrons on Sunday. “We understand that his remarks were distressing and offensive to many of our community members, and for that, we sincerely apologize.”
The “American Graffiti” star was hosted by the Cabot on Saturday, May 25 for what was advertised as “An Evening With Richard Dreyfuss” when, according to social media posts from those in attendance, Dreyfuss began sharing offensive comments towards women and the LGBTQ community.
Two attendees shared on the venue’s Facebook page that they walked out of the event “along with hundred of others because of [Dreyfuss’] racist, homophobic [and] misogynistic rant” while the other attendee left the Q&A due to “his small minded bigoted view of women and choice.”
According to several social media posts, Dreyfuss made remarks regarding the #MeToo movement and shared beliefs offensive to the trans community.
“At The Cabot, we are committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of our community. The views expressed by Mr. Dreyfuss do not reflect our beliefs, and we do not endorse them in any way,” the statement continued. “We take full responsibility for the oversight in not anticipating the direction of the conversation and for any discomfort in caused.”
Representatives for the Cabot did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment. Dreyfuss could not be reached.
Dreyfuss has previously been outspoken regarding his thoughts on such topics, recently saying the Academy’s new diversity and inclusion standards “make [him] vomit” as he defended performances using blackface.
“It’s an art. No one should be telling me as an artist that I have to give in to the latest, most current idea of what morality is,” Dreyfuss said on PBS’ “The Firing Line With Margaret Hoover” in May 2023. “What are we risking? Are we really risking hurting people’s feelings? You can’t legislate that. You have to let life be life. I’m sorry, I don’t think there is a minority or majority in the country that has to be catered to like that.”
