The New York Times released a bombshell report on Wednesday alleging that indie rock musician Ryan Adams psychologically abused at least seven different women (including Phoebe Bridgers). One of the women was Adams’ ex-wife, actor and musician Mandy Moore. Adams denies the claims.
for years, Ryan Adams has used his influence in music to lure in and emotionally torment women@melenar & I talked to some, including Mandy Moore, Phoebe Bridgers & a young woman who says her sexual texts w Adams while she was underage killed her dreams https://t.co/OuGkTDzyNQ
— Joe Coscarelli (@joecoscarelli) February 13, 2019
Speaking to the Times, Moore said, “Music was a point of control for him.” Moore met Adams in 2007 when she was 23, and he discouraged her from working with any other managers or producers. That basically put him in charge of her career. Yet at the same time, he was telling Moore things like, “You’re not a real musician, because you don’t play an instrument.” He would also book time for her in the studio but then give the time to other female musicians.
I spent weeks in the recording studio w Ryan Adams 5 yrs ago to make photos for an album. He assaulted me & threatened to destroy my career. I still don’t know what to say or do, I still feel scared. https://t.co/IoLGyIrrn1 @nytimes
— Megan McIsaac (@meganmcisaac) February 13, 2019
“His controlling behavior essentially did block my ability to make new connections in the industry during a very pivotal and potentially lucrative time—my entire mid-to-late 20s,” Moore explained.
I am so proud of the graceful, class act that you are, @TheMandyMoore.
You are stronger and braver than most. What a joy it has been to watch you soar these past three years.
You’ve only just begun. ❤️ https://t.co/aDgx382d2v— Minka Kelly (@minkakelly) February 14, 2019
The other six women interviewed for the article all had stories similar to Moore’s. Megan Butterworth, Adams’ ex-fiancee, called him “controlling” and “emotionally abusive” and claims that he stalked and harassed her online.
People on Twitter spoke out against Adams, calling him out for abhorrent behavior.
Wrote this when the Weinstein story broke, but I'm thinking about it now, with Ryan Adams. A person doesn't need to physically assault another person to do this; it can still stay with you for the rest of your life pic.twitter.com/Sh6SM5g2o8
— Jia Tolentino (@jiatolentino) February 14, 2019
Thank you to Mandy, Phoebe, Courtney and others for speaking out. This is an important article. This also cracks the door on more like him in our industry. There are more. Thank you to the @nytimes for continuing these important reveals. We're all fed up. https://t.co/xlU6ibjubX
— V a n e s s a C a r l t o n (@VanessaCarlton) February 14, 2019
ryan adams didn't get away with this for so long because he made awe inspiring, impossible-to-criticize music. he got away with it because 95% of the music industry from DIY on up are completely mediocre pervert dudes just like him and they all want to keep it this way
— meredith graves (@gravesmeredith) February 14, 2019
fun fact about that creep everyone's talking about: 4 or 5 years ago he DMed me often & invited me to his "private pinball arcade." I said no because I had A Bad Feeling, & he unfollowed. anyway, I believe every word of that NYT article, & I'll probably delete this.
— priscilla page (@BBW_BFF) February 14, 2019
I know a few women who have dated this man and these claims are definitely true. I believe Mandy Moore and the women who put their necks and careers on the line to tell their stories. We’ve got your backs. #TimesUp https://t.co/s0YRzrElGk
— Amber Tamblyn (@ambertamblyn) February 14, 2019
Soon after the article claim out, Adams tweeted a (sort of?) apology, claiming he’s “not a perfect man.” But then he went on to deny the claims and say that the article was false.
I am not a perfect man and I have made many mistakes. To anyone I have ever hurt, however unintentionally, I apologize deeply and unreservedly.
— Ryan Adams (@TheRyanAdams) February 13, 2019
But the picture that this article paints is upsettingly inaccurate. Some of its details are misrepresented; some are exaggerated; some are outright false. I would never have inappropriate interactions with someone I thought was underage. Period.
— Ryan Adams (@TheRyanAdams) February 13, 2019
As someone who has always tried to spread joy through my music and my life, hearing that some people believe I caused them pain saddens me greatly. I am resolved to work to be the best man I can be. And I wish everyone compassion, understanding and healing.
— Ryan Adams (@TheRyanAdams) February 13, 2019
Just hours later, Mandy Moore posted an Instagram, addressing the situation.
The picture is of Moore, and the caption reads: “Speaking your truth can be painful and triggering but it’s always worth it. My heart is with all women who have suffered any sort of trauma or abuse. You are seen and heard. #sisterhoodforever.”
People are applauding the bravery of Moore and all the women who came forward to talk about Ryan Adams.
Mandy Moore deserves everything.
— Sophia Benoit (@1followernodad) February 14, 2019
I cannot wait to listen to new Mandy Moore music both to spite that man and because I genuinely really like Mandy Moore and am excited to see what comes out of her head and heart next
— alanna bennett (@AlannaBennett) February 14, 2019
for more years than I can count my love and admiration for @TheMandyMoore has been profound but speaking out about this goon – is it. and girl you’re one of the REALEST musicians out there ♥️ https://t.co/KvBSKZFqbL
— alyssa “vajamboree 2020” mastromonaco (@AlyssaMastro44) February 14, 2019
The music industry is about to have to reckon with the #MeToo movement, and it’s long overdue.
h/t New York Times and Someecards