This A-List Director Had Such a Terrible Experience With Harvey Weinstein That He Almost Quit Hollywood

Content Warning: This article contains descriptions of sexual violence.

Martin Scorsese, revered as one of the greatest directors in the history of cinema, is known for his uncompromising vision and dedication to the art of filmmaking. However, even this stalwart of the silver screen was nearly driven to quit Hollywood due to a tumultuous collaboration with the now-disgraced Hollywood mogul.

In a recent interview, Scorsese opened up about the harrowing experience he had while working with Weinstein on the 2002 film Gangs of New York. The project, which was a passion piece for Scorsese that took 25 years to bring to the big screen, quickly turned into a nightmare due to conflict over runtime and budget.

“If that was the only way that I was able to be allowed to make films, then I’d have to stop,” he told GQ. “Because the results weren’t satisfying. It was at times extremely difficult, and I wouldn’t survive it. I’d be dead. And so I decided it was over, really.”

Scorsese’s vision for the film clashed with Weinstein’s business-driven approach and led to heated disagreements, including one incident where Scorsese reportedly flipped a desk in frustration. 

“Marty went over and threw a desk upside down – with a PA’s computer on – and ran out of the room. We didn’t see him for the rest of the day,” a source told The Independent back in December 2022. The constant battles and negative energy took a toll on the director, leading him to question his future in the industry.

“I decided it was over,” Scorsese admitted in his interview. This statement, coming from a director who has given the world masterpieces like Goodfellas, Taxi Driver, and The Departed, underscores the severity of the situation.

This isn’t the first time that stories about Weinstein’s domineering and abusive tendencies have come to light. The producer was sentenced to 23 years in prison in 2020 after being convicted of rape and sexual assault. But Scorsese’s revelations provide a new perspective on the toxic work culture that Weinstein cultivated.

Scorsese’s story serves as a sobering reminder of the power dynamics that once dominated Hollywood. It also illustrates the resilience of artists who continue to create in spite of such challenges. While Scorsese may have contemplated leaving Hollywood, we’re certainly glad he decided to stay.

Before you go, click here to see all the best celebrity memoirs you can read right now.