Jennifer Lawrence Describes Harvey Weinstein Relationship As ‘Paternal,’ Unaware ‘He Was A Rapist’

Jennifer Lawrence is not one to be silent when it comes to issues plaguing Hollywood, such as equal pay or the perception of women. Now, she's speaking up about the sexual assault and harassment allegations that have come to light since Harvey Weinstein was accused of sexual misconduct.

During an interview with Oprah Winfrey for The Hollywood Reporter, the “Mother! actress revealed that she struggled to process the allegations made against Weinstein, because she and the movie producer had a platonic relationship. “I didn’t know that he was a rapist,” she told the publication.

“Just speaking for myself, I had known him since I was 20, and he had only ever been nice to me — except for the moments that he wasn’t,” Lawrence explained.

Despite their disagreements at times, the “Joy” star has maintained that she and Weinstein have always had a friendly relationship. “He was paternal to me. So I needed a moment to process everything because I thought I knew this guy, and then he’s being accused of rape,” the 27-year-old said.

Although Lawrence admitted she was well aware of Weinstein’s reputation of being “a tough guy, a brute” and “a tough guy to negotiate with,” she was shocked that he was just one of many men in a high position who abused his power.

“And it’s so widespread, the abuse, from so many different people — it’s directors, it’s producers — that I think everybody needed to [process it]. Everybody needs to deal with this in their own way; everybody needs to heal,” she said.

Even though Lawrence has continuously expressed her sympathy for the victims of sexual misconduct, she believes that the issue will finally receive enough attention and spark a change.

“I don’t know a woman who hasn’t been touched by some sort of abuse. I’m sad by the women’s stories, but I’m excited by the change that’s going to come from it. The rule book is being rewritten right now. People are terrified. I mean, specifically, men using their power to abuse women,” she said.

Although Lawrence has continued to express concerns about the issues plaguing Hollywood, she has previously hinted that she may need to take a much needed break from all the glitz and glamor that tinsel town has to offer.