On July 31, actor Gary Busey pleaded guilty to one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact.
During a virtual court appearance, the 2014 winner of Celebrity Big Brother admitted touching a woman inappropriately. The 2022 incident took place at the Monster-Mania Convention in New Jersey.
Gary Busey admits “it was not an accidental touching” after 2022 incident
“It was not an accidental touching,” Gary admitted to the judge.
According to his criminal defense attorney Blair Zwillman, Gary had to admit his wrongdoing in order for the judge to accept his plea. “There has to be a factual basis where he admits the offense,” the attorney told People. “He had to admit that it was non-consensual.”
“This was the best disposition for him,” his lawyer added. “He’s glad to put this behind him. He is basically a family guy. He is not a criminal.”
Originally charged with four counts of criminal sexual contact and one count of attempted criminal sexual contact, Gary has not yet been sentenced. In addition to a fine, he’s facing one to five years’ probation. But his attorney reported, “We’re going to ask that he’d just be fined and end it.”
At the 2022 horror film convention, three women reported the actor touching them inappropriately during an autograph event. Initially, Gary denied any wrongdoing and accused the women of lying.
“None of that happened,” he told TMZ at the time. “It was a partner, a camera lady and me, and two girls … it took less than 10 seconds, and they left. Then they made up a story that I assaulted them sexually, and I did not. Nothing happened. It’s all false.”
In 1978, Gary received an Oscar nomination for his breakout role as Buddy Holly in The Buddy Holly Story. He not only appeared in dozens of films over the years, but he also guest starred on multiple TV shows, including Two and a Half Men and Dancing with the Stars, as well as Celebrity Big Brother. Despite his extensive career as a film, television, and stage actor, Gary’s estimated net worth is only estimated to be about $600,000.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.
Celebrity Big Brother is streaming on Paramount+.
TELL US – ARE YOU A FAN OF GARY? DO YOU THINK THE CONVICTION WILL HARM HIS CAREER?
