The 72-year-old had been experiencing severe chest pains and had contacted his jail consultant multiple times over the weekend to express concern about his health.

According to his lawyer, Arthur Aidala, Weinstein and the consultant sent urgent emails to officials at Rikers and Bellevue Hospital, warning them that Weinstein's life was at risk if immediate action was not taken. Their message conveyed the gravity of the situation, stating, "This guy is going to die on your watch if you don't do something." Subsequently, Weinstein was transported to the hospital on Sunday evening for further evaluation and treatment.

This is not the first health scare for Weinstein. In July, he was treated for COVID-19 and double pneumonia, as reported by the BBC. Weinstein also suffers from diabetes and high blood pressure, which further complicates his medical condition. In 2020, he was hospitalized in the same facility for a blocked artery, underscoring ongoing health concerns.

Earlier this year, a court overturned Weinstein's 2020 conviction on charges related to sex crimes in New York. Currently, Weinstein awaits the start of jury selection for his next trial, scheduled tentatively for November 12th in Manhattan.

The news of Weinstein's emergency heart surgery comes amidst public scrutiny and numerous allegations of sexual misconduct that fueled the #MeToo movement in 2017. His case has become emblematic of the abuses of power within the entertainment industry and has shed light on widespread systemic issues of harassment and assault.

As the legal proceedings continue, the health and well-being of Harvey Weinstein remain of utmost concern. Updates regarding his recovery and upcoming trial will be closely monitored by the public and the media.