Yahoo Lifestyle "Power" Actor Michael Rainey Jr. Issued A Statement After Being Sexually Assaulted On A Livestream
This story contains discussion of sexual assault.
You know Michael Rainey Jr. from the Power TV franchise, as well as Orange Is the New Black and Barbershop: the Last Cut.
Yesterday, video footage circulated online of Michael being sexually assaulted by streamer TyTy James' younger sister during a livestrem.
Now, Michael — as well as his reps, and TyTy — are speaking out about the incident.
"I am still in shock and don't fully know how to process what happened last night," Michael said on his IG Story. "This is an unfortunate situation that I do not condone in any way. I can't take it lightly because I know I would be in serious trouble if the roles were reversed."
"The fact is, sexual assault is never okay, regardless of gender or status," he also wrote. "We're all human, and we should respect each other. Most importantly, we should always respect ourselves."
In a statement to People, Michael's reps said he was "deeply saddened and shocked by the events that occurred during the TyTy James live stream this past weekend. He is still processing what happened and doesn't entirely know how to feel about it."
"This situation is not being taken lightly," the statement continued. "Sexual harassment and assault are serious and unacceptable acts. Taking advantage of someone's celebrity in this manner devalues entertainers and underscores the need to respect their humanity. Those who entertain us are human beings just like everyone else."
TyTy also posted a statement on social media to "sincerely apologize to Michael and his family for what took place." "My little sister was completely wrong and out of line," he wrote. "What she did was very inappropriate and unacceptable. I am truly embarrassed and disgusted by her actions. I completely respect whatever direction Michael wants to go in this situation."
— Tylil (@thetylilshow_) June 10, 2024
@thetylilshow_ / Via x.com
"After watching the clip, I was completely taken back by what she done," TyTy also wrote, noting that he will take "extreme precautions" in the future and has "banned" his sister from appearing on streams in the future. "I do not condone any type of assault," he concluded.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, you can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE, which routes the caller to their nearest sexual assault service provider. You can also search for your local center here.
