'I learn from my mistakes': Arcade Fire singer Win Butler accused of sexual misconduct by multiple female fans
CALIFORNIA, US: Singer-songwriter Win Butler, who is best known as the frontman of the rock band Arcade Fire, has come under fire after multiple women accused him of sexual misconduct. Four women, out of which three claim to be fans of the 42-year-old crooner. Butler, who is married to Arcade Fire singer Regine Chassagne for nearly 20 years responded to the allegations in a detailed statement.
In the statement, as per Pitchfork, the rock musician denied the sexual misconduct allegations but did not deny having relationships with the accusers. The musician and multi-instrumentalist attributed his infidelity to a period of depression adding that he was self-medicating it with alcohol. The publication reported that all women were between the ages of 18 and 23 when their interactions with Butler took place. The singer was between 36 and 39 at the time. The instances reportedly took place between 2016 and 2020.
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Win Butler gets accused of sexual misconduct
A 21-year-old woman, who uses they/them pronouns, shared that they was groped by Win Butler while they rode in a car together. The woman added that on another occasion, the singer showed up uninvited at their home where he repeatedly and forcefully attempted to initiate sex. Speaking to Pitchfork, they said, “He thought my behavior was weird, so maybe it was actually me in the wrong. Looking back, it's pretty easy to identify the manipulation at the core of that exchange. It's also really clear that it worked. I continued to doubt the validity of my behaviors and my assertion of my "no" and lack of consent for months after.”
Another woman, who wished to stay anonymous, claimed that she was 18 when she met Butler. She alleged that Butler took her out and got her drunk at a bar that he co-owns followed by sexual text messages. Two other women too came forward with the pseudonyms Sarah and Fiona. Sarah said, “He used me, basically, as his personal therapist, and easy way to get sex over the phone. The FaceTimes would be strictly, he gets off, hangs up. I felt sick every day after I did it.”
Fiona shared her experience revealing she did have sex with Butler. This happened after they exchanged texts in Vancouver prior to the band performing in the city. In a shocking revelation, she attempted suicide with painkillers. Fiona told Pitchfork, “The toll of having to keep everything secret, constantly pushing my needs aside in order to appease him, lack of boundaries, and the guilt of being the other woman was getting too hard to ignore.”
Win Butler responds to allegations
Win Butler, after the allegations, shared a detailed statement via rep Risa Heller. He confessed to having sexual interactions with each of the four people but maintained that they were all consensual adding that they were not initiated by him. “I have had consensual relationships outside of my marriage”, said a part of his statement. He continued, “While these relationships were all consensual, I am very sorry to anyone who I have hurt with my behavior. As I look to the future, I am continuing to learn from my mistakes and working hard to become a better person, someone my son can be proud of.”
Butler added, “I’m sorry I wasn’t more aware and tuned in to the effect I have on people - I f**ked up, and while not an excuse, I will continue to look forward and heal what can be healed, and learn from past experiences.” The singer further shared, “I have long struggled with mental health issues and the ghosts of childhood abuse. In my 30s, I started drinking as I dealt with the heaviest depression of my life after our family experienced a miscarriage” adding, “None of this is intended to excuse my behavior, but I do want to give some context and share what was happening in my life around this time.”
Win Butler’s wife shares her perspective on allegations
Win Butler’s wife Regine Chassagne in an official statement shared her feelings after multiple women accused Butler of sexual misconduct. “Win is my soulmate, my songwriting partner, my husband, the father of my beautiful boy. He has been my partner in life and in music for 20 years” said, Butler’s wife adding, “And for all of the love in our lives, I have also watched him suffer through immense pain. I have stood by him because I know he is a good man who cares about this world, our band, his fans, friends, and our family.”
Chassagne further shared, “I’ve known Win since before we were “famous,” when we were just ordinary college students. I know what is in his heart, and I know he has never, and would never, touch a woman without her consent and I am certain he never did. He has lost his way and he has found his way back. I love him and love the life we have created together.”