Actress and model Brooke Shields has recently revealed that she was sexually assaulted by a Hollywood executive over 30 years ago. In an interview with People, Shields shared her experience and how she has been processing it over the years.
At the time of the assault, Shields blamed herself, as many victims often do. But as time went on, she realized that it was not her fault. “I’m more angry now than I was able to be then,” Shields said. “If you’re afraid, you’re rightfully so. They are scary situations. They don’t have to be violent to be scary.”
This is the first time Shields has publicly spoken about the assault, explaining that back then, people didn’t believe these kinds of stories. She feared that she would never work again if she spoke out. However, in a soon-to-be-released two-part documentary, Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields, she shares her story in more detail.
Now 57 years old, Shields first started her career as a model at just 11 months old. She continued to model until she appeared in the controversial film Pretty Baby at the age of 12. At 14, she became the youngest model to grace the cover of Vogue. Throughout the 1980s, Shields appeared in provocative ads, including Calvin Klein, which sexualized her at an early age.
After graduating from Princeton University, Shields found herself at a low point in her career. She met with a Hollywood executive, hoping for a job opportunity. However, he lured her to his hotel room under false pretenses and sexually assaulted her. Shields carried the guilt and blame for years, questioning her choices that led to the assault.
Shields confided in her close friend and security consultant, Gavin de Becker, but kept the assault hidden from the public eye. Now, she is ready to share her story in the hopes of helping others who have experienced similar trauma. She wants to be an advocate for women to speak their truth.
It is heartbreaking to hear that many victims of sexual assault, like Shields, stay silent out of fear that no one will believe them. We must believe survivors and create a supportive environment where they can share their stories without shame or judgment. Sharing Brooke Shields’ story is an important step towards breaking the silence and supporting those who have suffered in silence for far too long.
