J.J. Abrams has branded Harvey Weinstein a "monster" after he was accused of sexually assaulting a number of women over a 30 year period

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter at the 15th annual Gala in the Garden in Los Angeles, Abrams said: "Someone said to me the other day that they are sick of hearing people talk about how disgusting it is. I don't think enough can be said about how viciously repulsive his abuse of power was. He's a monster. There are other monsters but there are those who fight monsters and tonight is all about those who fight monsters."

Since the allegations came to light, Weinstein has found himself fired from his business, The Weinstein Company, by his own brother Bob and he has had his membership of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revoked. He will also be stripped of his French Legion of Honour.

Actress Rose McGowan has alleged she was raped by the producer, leaving her "blacklisted" by Hollywood.

She said previously: "I didn't want his name next to mine in my obituary; his name doesn't deserve to be mentioned in the same breath as mine when I'm dead ... They threatened [me] with being blacklisted. I was blacklisted after I was raped, because I got raped, because I said something ... but only like internally, you know."

Weinstein - who has denied all allegations of non-consensual sex - insists he is "trying his best" to get "help" and is hoping he will get a "second chance".

He said recently: "Guys I'm not doing OK but I'm trying I've got to get help. I'm hanging in - I'm trying my best."

Following the allegations made by a number of actresses, Weinstein's wife of 10 years, Georgina Chapman - with whom he shares kids, India, seven, and Dashiell, four - has decided to leave him.