“Bill Murray Confronts Lingering Guilt: ‘I Can’t Shake My On-Set Misconduct Past’”

• Bill Murray recently addressed previous accusations of inappropriate behavior during a May 5 discussion with The New York Times
• The 2022 controversy arose during production of Being Mortal
• The veteran performer claimed personal growth from the episode, noting he “frequently reflects on the situation”

The 2022 workplace incident during Being Mortal’s filming continues to weigh on Bill Murray’s conscience, the actor revealed.

Following misconduct claims from a junior female staffer in spring 2022, the 74-year-old entertainer reportedly settled for a sum exceeding $100,000 that autumn. Initial reports described an encounter where Murray allegedly positioned himself over the woman on a prop bed and kissed her mouth through their protective masks during COVID safety protocols.

This allegation triggered an internal studio investigation, leading to the indefinite suspension of Aziz Ansari’s Searchlight Pictures production under Disney’s corporate umbrella.

In a candid May 5 interview with The New York Times, Murray described feeling “publicly scrutinized” despite attempts at reconciliation. “I’ve tried making amends where possible,” he stated.

“The memory surfaces regularly – sometimes weekly. I’m still unclear about my motivations,” Murray confessed. “It was patterned after previous humorous interactions I’d considered harmless.”

“Both masked, I attempted a comedic gesture – not physical contact. We’d shared multiple lunch breaks previously,” he elaborated, maintaining their professional acquaintance.

When questioned about personal growth, the Groundhog Day icon responded affirmatively: “Progress occurs at any age.”

“The situation remains paradoxical – a masked kiss intended as humor. While I still find the concept amusing, its consequences proved severe,” Murray reflected.

Representatives for Murray and Disney didn’t immediately respond to May 5 inquiries from PEOPLE.

The actor also contested longstanding Hollywood anecdotes, including a notorious 1991 What About Bob? incident involving co-star Richard Dreyfuss.

“Contrary to popular belief, I aimed a glass at the ceiling during a heated moment, not at any individual,” Murray clarified. “My aim’s better than that – had I targeted Richard, contact would’ve occurred.”

Addressing Geena Davis’ claims of public humiliation, Murray dismissed the characterization: “Isolated incidents get magnified over decades. With countless professional interactions, a handful of negative accounts don’t define one’s character.”