Armie Hammer Clarifies Ex-Girlfriend Paige Lorenze’s Claims of Branding Incident
Armie Hammer, Paige Lorenze Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images; Karwai Tang/WireImage
Actor Armie Hammer has responded to allegations made by his ex-girlfriend Paige Lorenze, who claimed that he branded his initials into her lower hip. In an interview with Piers Morgan, set to air on Friday, July 19, Hammer clarified the incident, stating that it was not a branding, but rather a “tiny scrape” with a small knife.
Hammer maintained that the scenario was consensual and that there was no blood involved. He compared it to couples getting tattoos of each other’s initials, saying it was a “romantic gesture.” However, Morgan pushed back on Hammer’s claims, pointing out that using a knife on someone is different from getting a tattoo.
Lorenze had previously accused Hammer of carving his initials into her skin, leaving visible bruises and blood. She claimed that Hammer told her it was a normal practice in the BDSM community and that he coerced her into agreeing to it.
Hammer denied the allegations, stating that he would never engage in any sexual activity that his partner didn’t appreciate or enjoy. He also claimed that the incident was a “huge sense of validation” for him, as it made him feel powerful and good.
Lorenze was one of several women who accused Hammer of sending graphic text messages and engaging in non-consensual sexual activities. Hammer’s lawyer denied the allegations, stating that any interactions were consensual and mutually participatory.
In recent months, Hammer has spoken publicly about how the scandal affected his career and personal life. He revealed that he sought therapy and rehab to address his addiction to drugs, alcohol, and sex, and that it has helped him find happiness and a new sense of purpose.