Ben Affleck Apologizes For Groping MTV Host Hilarie Burton In 2003

Ben Affleck has apologized for groping then-MTV presenter Hilarie Burton back on a 2003 episode of TRL.

BEN AFFLECK APOLOGIZES FOR GROPING HILARIE BURTON ON TV IN 2003

Amid allegations of sexual harassment and rape surrounding Harvey Weinstein, Affleck posted a condemnation of the producer. Seeing this, a Twitter user brought up an incident in which Affleck “grabbed Hilarie Burton’s breasts on TRL once. Everyone forgot though,” she wrote. Burton retweeted and responded, “I didn’t forget.”

After being called out, Affleck wrote a brief apology on Twitter. “I acted inappropriately toward Ms. Burton and I sincerely apologize,” he wrote.

A clip from TRL Uncensored made the rounds on the social media site, which saw Burton recall the moment Affleck put his arm around her and “tweak my left boob… some girls like a good tweakage here and there,” she said. “I’d rather have a high five.” On Twitter, Burton explained that she “had to laugh back then so I wouldn’t cry” after it happened.

Burton has received a lot of support on Twitter. “I’m so sorry that happened to you. It’s infuriating that people never bring up all the gross, predatory things he’s done,” wrote one user. “I remember when that happened and never forgot about it. We see you,” said another. “Seriously, thank you for that. I was a kid,” replied Burton.

Affleck’s initial statement about Weinstein said, “I am saddened and angry that a man who I worked with used his position of power to intimidate, sexually harass and manipulate many women over decades. The additional allegations of assault that I read this morning made me sick. This is completely unacceptable, and I find myself asking what I can do to make sure this doesn’t happen to others. We need to do better at protecting our sisters, friends, co-workers and daughters. We must support those who come forward, condemn this type of behavior when we see it and help ensure there are more women in positions of power.”