Harvey Weinstein’s prison consultant has provided an update on the disgraced filmmaker’s sudden hospitalization over the weekend. The 72-year-old former producer was transferred to Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan on Sunday evening from Rikers Island jail, after repeatedly complaining of chest pain.
Weinstein’s prison consultant, Craig Rothfeld, confirmed that the former film mogul underwent a pericardiocentesis procedure to remove fluid from around his heart and lungs. In a joint statement with his publicist, Juda Engelmayer, Rothfeld said, “We can confirm that Mr. Weinstein had a procedure and surgery on his heart today.”
Currently, Weinstein remains in the ICU. According to CBS News, Rothfeld stated that while Weinstein is still in pain following the procedure, he is “not in critical condition.” However, Rothfeld noted that Weinstein continues to suffer from “several other serious health issues which need to be addressed.”
Rothfeld revealed that Weinstein’s health had been deteriorating for several weeks, with his condition worsening daily. Arthur Aidala, Weinstein’s lawyer, explained that they had urged jail officials to transfer him to the hospital immediately after Weinstein complained of chest pains, warning that his condition could be fatal without prompt medical attention.
Weinstein has faced several health challenges in recent months. In July, he was treated for pneumonia in both lungs after contracting COVID-19. Weinstein is currently serving a prison sentence after being convicted of rape and sexual misconduct in Los Angeles. The conviction stems from a 2013 incident where Weinstein entered a woman’s hotel room uninvited during a Los Angeles film festival. He was sentenced to 16 years in February 2022 and is held at Rikers Island jail.
Additionally, Weinstein is awaiting a retrial in Manhattan after his 2020 rape conviction was overturned earlier this year by the New York Court of Appeals. Despite his ongoing legal battles, Weinstein’s deteriorating health has been a major concern for his legal team and prison officials alike.