An appeals court in New York has rejected an appeal by ex-Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein (70) against his conviction. The court said on Thursday that he was sentenced to 23 years in prison for sex crimes in March 2020.

“We are pleased with today’s decision, which upholds a monumental conviction that has transformed the way prosecutors and courts approach the complex prosecution of sex offenders,” said Attorney Alvin Bragg. He was “disappointed, but not surprised,” said a spokesman for Weinstein – and announced that he would explore further appeal options.

The once rich and powerful Weinstein, who produced hit films such as “The English Patient”, “Pulp Fiction”, “Good Will Hunting” and “Gangs of New York” with his company and for “Shakespeare in Love” himself, had more than 80 women won an Oscar, accused of sexual abuse.