Seal came under fire earlier this week after calling out Hollywood’s hypocrisy in the wake of the #MeToo movement. The “Kiss From A Rose” singer utilized a meme of Oprah Winfrey alongside Harvey Weinstein – a Hollywood executive that was accused of sexually harassing several women – that suggests the entertainment tycoon knew of Weinstein’s actions.
Now, the British artist took to his Facebook account to clear the air on the situation. “I have an enormous amount of respect for everything that Oprah has achieved and contributed in her life,” Seal said. “What I reposted was not an attack on Oprah at all. She just happened to be the person photographed with the pig in the picture. No, what I reposted was commentary on the hypocritical and double-standard nature and behavior of Hollywood.”
Seal’s testimony didn’t stop there. The 54-year-old father-of-four aimed his comments at Fox News and Stacey Dash, entities that he believes attempted to use his comments as a dagger against Winfrey.
“Fox News, don’t try and use me as a pawn against Oprah and in any of your political games. And Stacey Dash, keep my name out of your mouth,” Seal said. “Do not retweet, re-quote anything I have said in order to reinforce your self-hating agenda. You live in the sunken place. Again, this was not an attack against Oprah. This was an observation of the toxic nature of Hollywood and I believe that a conscious people are a progressive people.”
The headlines featuring Seal followed Winfrey’s critically-acclaimed Golden Globes speech (Jan. 7) where she condemned those who have used their power for heinous gestures and praised those who came forward to support the #MeToo movement.
“What I know for sure is that speaking your truth is the most powerful tool we all have. And I’m especially proud and inspired by all the women who have felt strong enough and empowered enough to speak up and share their personal stories,” Winfrey said. “Each of us in this room are celebrated because of the stories that we tell. And this year we became the story. But it’s not just a story affecting the entertainment industry. It’s one that transcends any culture, geography, race, religion, politics or workplace.”
Seal also referred to an “Uncle Tom” comment that was made under one of his posts, and applauded the women who came forward to start a conversation on sexual abuse and harassment.