Heathcliff Berru Issues First Statement Since Assault Allegations: “I’m Sorry For Everything”
The former publicist spoke with Brooklyn Magazine from rehab.
In the aftermath of a string of sexual assault allegations last month—a new story in Brooklyn Magazine tallies 43 separate accounts—former Life And Death CEO Heathcliff Berru checked himself into rehab for addiction to drugs, alcohol, and sex. He recently agreed to speak with Brooklyn Magazine as part of a detailed article about those allegations and sexual assault in the music industry more generally.
"I was a terrible husband, a terrible friend, a terrible human being on every level, and I found my escape through my drugs, alcohol, and sex addiction," Berru declared. "That's something that's hard, and really hard to admit… I can't believe it went this far and I did so many things that upset so many people to such a degree that it consumed their lives and it is an issue they have to deal with in a very real way."
"I made mistakes, but I am not a mistake," he continued. "I had a hard time coming to that realization. I'm in detox and treatment right now; I've surrendered everything. I look back, and I can't help but obsess over it. I look at the things I did, I have to say this: My behavior was wildly inappropriate, hurtful, and terrible. But I have never raped or drugged anyone. I can't accept that."
He reiterated his regrets—"I’m sorry for everything, the pain, the anguish, the hurt"—and commended those who spoke out about his actions, noting "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. I want to be a good example for people that have addiction issues. The reason I'm even speaking today is to express sincere apology and to acknowledge that I was a really shitty person and upset a lot of women. Men everywhere are shaken as a result of these stories, and you know what? It’s time that people own up."
Read the full story here.