Russell Simmons announced Thursday that he is stepping away from the companies he founded, a day after writer Jenny Lumet accused him of sexual assault in a letter published by The Hollywood Reporter. Simmons co-founded Def Jam and most recently launched All Def Digital.
Lumet alleged that in 1991 Simmons sexually assaulted her after a dinner. She wrote that he directed his driver to his home despite her repeated requests to be taken to her own, and that she went along with what happened because she feared for her safety.
Simmons responded that his memory of that night is very different from hers, but said it is now clear to him that her feelings of fear and intimidation are real. He also said he has been “thoughtless and insensitive” in some relationships over the years and apologized.
Lumet’s account followed another allegation earlier in the month. A woman named Keri told the Los Angeles Times on November 19 that Simmons and director Brett Ratner invited her to Ratner’s apartment in 1991, and that Simmons tried to force her to have sex. Simmons denied that account, saying the encounter was completely consensual.
In his statement announcing his exit, Simmons said he does not want to be a distraction and that the companies will be run by a new generation of executives. He added that he will turn his yoga studio into a nonprofit center for learning and healing and will step aside to focus on personal growth and listening. A Def Jam representative declined to comment, according to NPR.
