Beverly, Massachusetts – A recent screening of the movie “Jaws” at the Cabot Theater in Beverly, Massachusetts, took an unexpected turn as actor Richard Dreyfuss stirred controversy with his remarks. Dreyfuss, known for his role in the 1975 blockbuster, made headlines for comments that some attendees found offensive during a Q&A session at the event.

During the start-of-summer screening, witnesses reported that Dreyfuss touched on various topics from Barbra Streisand to transgender issues and women, using language that was deemed inappropriate by the theater’s Executive Director, J. Casey Soward. Soward expressed regret over Dreyfuss’ remarks, stating that they did not align with the values of inclusivity and respect that the organization upholds.

Video footage confirmed Dreyfuss’ appearance on stage, where he donned a breakaway dress that was later removed to reveal him in a more formal attire. The event, which was sold out and promoted as “An evening with Richard Dreyfuss + Jaws screening,” attracted audience members who paid $300 each for tickets that included a meet-and-greet with the actor.

According to reports from audience members interviewed by The Boston Globe, Dreyfuss’s comments disparaging women in film, the MeToo movement, and LGBTQ rights prompted some attendees to leave the event in protest. Sarah Hogg, one of the attendees, mentioned that remarks about transgender children particularly disturbed them and their partner, leading to their decision to walk out.

The Cabot Theater issued a statement expressing concerns over the event with Dreyfuss, acknowledging the distress it caused to patrons. Soward regretted that an evening meant to celebrate an iconic movie turned into a platform for political views, emphasizing the theater’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all attendees.

Dreyfuss, a veteran actor with a career spanning several decades, has been no stranger to controversy in recent years. His comments, both on and off-screen, have often sparked debates and divided opinions among fans and critics alike. Despite his acclaimed performances on screen, Dreyfuss’s outspoken views on various social and political issues have sometimes overshadowed his acting career.

As the fallout from the event continues to unfold, the incident serves as a reminder of the complexities that can arise when public figures use their platform to express personal opinions. The controversy surrounding Dreyfuss’s remarks underscores the importance of thoughtful and respectful dialogue in public spaces, especially in the realm of entertainment and popular culture.