Last month, an extraordinary turn of events saw once-prominent music publicist Heathcliff Berru publicly disgraced after multiple allegations of sexual abuse done by him came to light. It first started with Dirty Projectors‘ Amber Coffman, who was then backed up and echoed by other prominent ladies in the music industry, including Best Coast‘s Bethany Cosentino. A day after Coffman first tweeted about this depraved act committed by Berru a few years ago, Berru had resigned from Life Or Death PR– the company he made. By the end of the week, the company ceased to exist at all.
Now, Berru has given his first interview since then to Brooklyn Magazine. Speaking on the phone from his rehab facility, Berru’s sentiments have changed a lot since his initial statement; a statement he now acknowledges was a “dry, almost insincere response” and that it came from “the last bit of publicist in me, trying to put out a fire.” Instead, he is apologetic, although he continues to deny drugging and raping anybody. He did commend the actions of his accusors, saying:
“I think it’s very brave and bold when people stand up. I hope this motivates women and anyone to stand up, and put one foot forward in a situation that makes them feel uncomfortable. Particularly sexism in music or entertainment, or in industries where people drink, use drugs and do other things that they’ll use to excuse themselves the next day when they clean up.”
The interview is part of a hugely extensive piece. Music editor Caitlin White has compiled one of the most thorough reports yet, and should be commended herself for putting this together. You can check that out here.
Image: SPIN