Henry Cavill Suggests He's Afraid to Date After #MeToo Because He Could Be 'Called a Rapist'

Henry Cavill is facing backlash after suggesting he's afraid to date in the wake of the #MeToo movement. 

Speaking to GQ Australia, the "Man of Steel" actor was asked how the movement against sexual harassment and assault has affected him and his behavior around women.

"Stuff has to change, absolutely," he said. "It’s important to also retain the good things, which were a quality of the past, and get rid of the bad things. There’s something wonderful about a man chasing a woman. There’s a traditional approach to that, which is nice. I think a woman should be wooed and chased, but maybe I’m old-fashioned for thinking that."

Then he went on to imply that meeting new people is trickier in the days since the movement has gained steam.

"It’s very difficult to do that if there are certain rules in place. Because then it’s like, 'Well, I don’t want to go up and talk to her, because I’m going to be called a rapist or something.' So you’re like, 'Forget it, I’m going to call an ex-girlfriend instead, and then just go back to a relationship, which never really worked.'"

He added, "But it’s way safer than casting myself into the fires of hell, because I’m someone in the public eye, and if I go and flirt with someone, then who knows what’s going to happen?"

The comments sparked a fierce response on social media. 

Cavill later apologized for the remarks, saying in a statement Thursday: "Insensitivity was absolutely not my intention. In light of this, I would just like to clarify and confirm to all that I have always and will continue to hold women in the highest regard, no matter the type of relationship, whether it be friendship, professional or a significant other.

 "Never would I intend to disrespect in any way, shape or form," he continued. This experience has taught me a valuable lesson as to the context and the nuance of editorial liberties. I look forward to clarifying my position in the future toward a subject that is so vitally important and in which I wholeheartedly support."

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