Pop Culture

Nate Parker Talks Rape Accusations, Male Privilege in 'Ebony' Interview

Nate Parker addressed the allegations of rape made against him in a new interview with 'Ebony.'

Not Available Lead
Image via Complex Original
Complex Original

In an Ebony interview published Saturday, filmmaker Nate Parker addressed the 1999 allegation of rape made against him, noting that he "never took a moment to think about the woman" when he dismissed the allegations earlier this month by saying that he "was cleared of it [in court]. That's that."

Parker, who has been on a press tour to promote his upcoming film The Birth of A Nation, spoke to Ebony extensively about male privilege, asking if he could "go off script real quick."

The interviewer asked Parker what he knew about consent when he was 19, the age at which he was charged with rape while a student at Pennsylvania State University. Parker acknowledged that he "can’t remember ever having a conversation about the definition of consent" when he was young, and that as a 36-year-old he's still learning what consent means.

He added:

Parker also added that he's talked to his daughter, who's in college, about rape culture, consent, and being careful of her surroundings. He last addressed the rape allegations in a Facebook post published August 16.

The woman who accused Parker of rape committed suicide in 2012.

Related Stories

Nate Parker
Pop Culture

Penn State Alumni Express Support for 'Birth of a Nation' Filmmaker Nate Parker in Open Letter

Four Penn State alumni have expressed support for 'Birth of a Nation' filmmaker Nate Parker, who was accused of rape, in a new open letter.

Trace William Cowen3623 days ago
Not Available Lead
Pop Culture

There's No Good Reason to Support Nate Parker

'The Birth of a Nation' director shouldn't be supported just because he's telling an important historical tale. His history matters too.

Michael Arceneaux3631 days ago
Cheryl Boone Isaacs Oscars 2016.
Pop Culture

Academy President: People Need to Watch 'Birth of a Nation' Despite Nate Parker's Rape Case

Academy president Cheryl Boon Isaac says people "need" to watch 'Birth of a Nation' despite Nate Parker's rape case controversy.

Debbie Encalada3622 days ago

Stay ahead on Exclusives

Download the Complex App