Variety reports that director Matthew Newton (Who We Are Now) has left Jessica Chastain’s Eve after his history of alleged assault and domestic violence was revealed online. This reveal resulted in an extensive online backlash against the director.
Newton gave his official statement on Friday morning, which you can read below:
“Yesterday I notified Jessica Chastain and the other producers on the film ‘Eve’ that I will be stepping down as director. Since the announcement of this film, the responses, which are powerful and important, have not fallen on deaf ears. I am profoundly aware that I have a responsibility to lead where I have failed in the past. I can never undo the harm that I’ve caused the people I’ve cared about and I carry that shame and responsibility with me every day.”
“Over the past eight years, I have been working extensively with healthcare professionals to help me overcome my addiction and mental health illness. For the past six years, I have lived a quiet and sober life. All I can do now is try to be a living amends and hopefully contribute to the positive change occurring in our industry.”
Not only was Matthew Newton set to direct the film, but he also wrote the script that will be used during production of the film.
Two-time Oscar nominee Jessica Chastain will both star and produce the new action movie, Eve. The film will be co-produced by Chastain using her production company Freckle Films and Voltage Films. Further details about the film are being kept under wraps, but it has been noted to be a character study.
In addition to Chastain, Kelly Carmichael, Nicolas Chartier, and Dominic Rustam will produce through Freckle Films. Jonathan Deckter will be executive producer and Babacar Diene will serve as co-producer for Voltage Films.
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
