Anthony Weiner Claims Huma Abedin Footage in ‘Weiner’ Doc Was Unauthorized: ‘They Didn’t Have a Release’
One through-line in reviews of “Weiner,” Josh Kriegman and Elyse Steinberg’s documentary about Anthony Weiner’s failed 2013 bid to become Mayor of New York City, was its uncomfortable portrayal of the candidate’s relationship with his wife Huma Abedin. Speaking with Mark Leibovich of the New York Times Magazine, Weiner takes issue with his wife’s inclusion in the film, saying that the filmmakers “violated the agreement not to use her.”
READ MORE: Sundance Review: ‘Weiner’ is the Best Documentary About a Political Campaign Ever Made
“They didn’t have a release,” he continues. “She had to grant permission, which she didn’t.” A high-level aide to Hillary Clinton, Abedin currently serves as vice chairwoman of Clinton’s presidential campaign. Lisa Califf, who serves as both spokeswoman and counsel for the film, rejects Weiner’s claim: “As is clear in the film,” she said to Leibovich via email, “the filmmakers had consent from everyone who appears in the film, including Anthony and Huma.” Weiner contends that he was assured by Kriegman both verbally and in emails that his wife would only be featured with her consent, which he says was never granted.
Asked whether he might sue the filmmakers, the former congressman responded, “I mean, who knows what happens in the future.” Read the full piece here.
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