'Crash' Director Paul Haggis's Ex-Wife Comes to His Defense Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Deborah Rennard, ex-wife of director and screenwriter Paul Haggis, issues statement in support of her ex-husband following allegations of sexual assault.

Paul Haggis
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NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 05: Writer/director Paul Haggis attends the 55th New York Film Festival 'Spielberg' premiere at Alice Tully Hall on October 5, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Jim Spellman/WireImage)

Paul Haggis

Paul Haggis's ex-wife Deborah Rennard has issued a statement in support of the Crash director in light of the rape and sexual assault allegations made against him. "As a woman, and an ex-actress in Hollywood, I have an unwavering support for the brave women, and some men, who have come forward to speak out against sexual predators in the film business," Rennard said in a statement, according to Deadline. "But even great movements by brave and sincere people can be used cynically."

Rennard tried to convey that Haggis is a good person in a lengthy statement. "I am not courageous. I don’t go out of my way to stick my neck out for others or champion an underdog. That would be my ex-husband Paul Haggis," she said. "In all the years I have known, been married to, worked together with, and been Paul’s ex, I have never known anyone more generous, caring, or selfless than him."

Rennard continued,"I know Paul. And I know beyond a shadow of a doubt and in my heart that he would never have committed any violent acts against women," she said. "I know it because I know his character, and I know these allegations go against the core of who he is."

To read her full explanation of why she believes Haggis couldn't be guilty of the allegations made against him, head here.  

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