New York – Third Attempt, New Showdown in Harvey Weinstein Case as Trial Begins Tuesday Morning

Harvey Weinstein’s third rape trial opened in New York on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, with prosecutors again portraying the former Hollywood producer as a powerful figure who used his influence to commit sexual assault.

The trial, which began in Manhattan Supreme Court, centers on a single allegation from 2013 involving hairstylist and actor Jessica Mann in a hotel room. Prosecutors argue this case will come down to “power, to control and to manipulation,” as stated by Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Candace White during opening statements.

This case will come down to power, to control and to manipulation

Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Candace White

Weinstein’s defense team, led by lawyer Jacob Kaplan, countered that the case is about “consent, about choice and about regret,” maintaining that Mann has reinterpreted a consensual encounter as a crime.

is about consent, about choice and about regret

Weinstein lawyer Jacob Kaplan

This marks the third time the rape charge related to the 2013 hotel encounter has gone to trial. Weinstein’s first conviction was overturned on appeal, and the second trial ended in a hung jury.

Unlike previous trials that included multiple accusers and charges, this proceeding is narrowly focused on the alleged incident with Mann. However, jurors will still hear evidence about the broader relationship between Weinstein and Mann before and after the alleged assault.

Weinstein, now 74, has been a central figure in the #MeToo movement since allegations against him emerged nearly a decade ago. He has previously been convicted of some sexual assault charges and acquitted of others in trials on both U.S. Coasts, with several charges ultimately dismissed.

District Attorney Alvin Bragg was present in the courtroom audience during the opening statements. The trial continues to draw significant attention as a bellwether case in the ongoing national conversation about sexual misconduct and accountability.