Content warning: The following article discusses sexual misconduct.
Christopher Whitehall, vocalist of Australian indie rock group The Griswolds, has admitted to “multiple cases” of sexual misconduct on social media.
Earlier this week, an Instagram account titled @garbageinmusic shared separate accounts by two women who both say Whitehall began messaging them when they were 16 and 17-years-old respectively. In both instances, the women say Whitehall sent them sexually explicit messages, photos and videos while they were still underage, and allege the musician manipulated and preyed on them because of their age.
In one account, it’s alleged Whitehall “specifically and thoroughly discussed” the potential legal ramifications of his actions, saying he could get “deported back to Australia” if anyone were to find out.
You can read those statements below:
On Monday (7th September) Whitehall took to social media to respond to the accusations, admitting to “multiple cases” of sexual misconduct.
“It is with a heavy heart that I am confirming that the statements I have read are true and I am here to take full responsibility and ownership of my actions,” wrote Whitehall in a post shared to The Griswolds’ Instagram account.
“There is zero excuse for my behaviour, the things I have done and the way I have acted is terrible and I’m’ not going to make any excuses. I want to confront this, I want to be held accountable and I deserve to be called out.”
“To the women that have come out, I support your statements and I am so deeply sorry that I hurt you and that I disrespected you. I am sorry for the damage I have caused you. You did not deserve any of this.”
If you need assistance, 1800 RESPECT – the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service — can be reached on 1800 737 732.
For help or information regarding mental health, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
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