LOS ANGELES, Nov. 11 (Xinhua) -- Producer Gary Goddard became the latest Hollywood figure accused of sexual misconduct Friday when actor Anthony Edwards wrote an emotional essay revealing he was molested by Goddard "for years."
Edwards, 55, who was best known for playing Goose in the 1986 action-drama "Top Gun" with Tom Cruise, wrote in an essay for blogger website Medium that he was sexually harassed by Goddard and his best friend was raped by the producer when they were young.
In the essay, titled "Yes Mom, There is Something Wrong," Edwards recalled that his vulnerability was exploited by Goddard when he only 12 years old and he had no courage to tell his mother the truth when he was asked by mother if the producer was pedophile two years later.
"One of the most tragic effects of sexual abuse in children is that the victims often feel deeply responsible-as if it is somehow their fault," Edwards wrote.
Goddard's spokesman, Sam Singer, released a statement Friday night denying Edwards' claims.
"As to the allegations that Mr. Edwards made in his post today, I can unequivocally deny them on Gary's behalf." the statement said.
"Gary played an important role in helping start Anthony's acting career and acted as his personal manager. He has nothing but the greatest respect for Anthony as a person. Gary is saddened by the false allegations."
The statement also mentioned Goddard was accused of sexual harassment in 2014 and the complainant withdrew the law suit finally.
According to law of California, since Edwards was under 18 years old in his accusation, if an investigation was operated by police, it could lead to criminal charges.
After movie mogul Harvey Weinstein's sexual harassment scandal was disclosed by media early October, more sexual assault allegations have been made against Hollywood's elite, including actors Kevin Spacey, Ed Westwick, filmmaker James Toback and Oscar-winning actor Dustin Hoffman.
