‘Power Book II: Ghost’ actor Michael Rainey was grabbed without his consent during an appearance on TyTy James’ Twitch livestream.
Michael Rainey Jr. is speaking out after he was touched without his consent on a livestream.
On June 9, the Power Book II: Ghost star, 23, Michael Rainey appeared on TyTy James’ Twitch livestream and was grabbed inappropriately by James’ sister in a moment caught on camera during the stream and later circulated on X (formerly Twitter).
In a statement, a rep for Michael Rainey Jr. said he is “deeply saddened and shocked by the events that occurred during the TyTy James live stream this past weekend. He is still processing what happened and doesn’t entirely know how to feel about it.”
“This situation is not being taken lightly,” the statement continued.
“Sexual harassment and assault are serious and unacceptable acts.
Taking advantage of someone’s celebrity in this manner devalues entertainers and underscores the need to respect their humanity. Those who entertain us are human beings just like everyone else.”
In the video, James’ sister’s hands were blocked by the children standing in front of her, but Rainey Jr. looked visibly uncomfortable after she approached him. He appeared to reach down in an effort to block her contact while looking around for help. The actor reportedly exited the livestream shortly after the encounter.
On his Instagram Stories, Rainey Jr. wrote that he is “still in shock” and
“can’t take it lightly because I know I would be in serious trouble if the roles were reversed.”
“This is an unfortunate situation that I can’t condone in any way,” he wrote. “The fact is, sexual assault is never okay, regardless of gender or status. We’re all human, and we should respect each other. Most importantly, we should respect ourselves.”
James took to his Instagram Stories to share a statement, too, in response to the clip, writing, “After the actions that occurred during my stream last night I would like to sincerely apologize to Michael and his family for what took place.”
“My little sister was completely wrong and out of line. What she did was very inappropriate and unacceptable. I am truly embarrassed and disgusted by her actions,” the statement continued.
“I completely respect whatever direction Michael wants to go in this situation. After watching the clip, I was completely taken aback by what she done [sic]. I will take extreme precautions with future streams to avoid similar issues and have banned her from participating in future streams. I do not condone any type of assault.”