Affleck made his apology a day after posting a message about how “saddened and angry” he felt about Hollywood producer Weinstein's alleged sexual harassment and assaults.

“I am saddened and angry that a man who I worked with used his position of power to intimidate, sexually harass and manipulate many women over decades,” he said.

“The additional allegations of assault that I read this morning made me sick.

“This is completely unacceptable, and I find myself asking what I can do to make sure this doesn't happen to others. We need to do better at protecting our sisters, friends, co-workers and daughters.

“We must support those who come forward, condemn this type of behaviour when we see it and help ensure there are more women in positions of power.”

However, Rose McGowan – who came to a financial settlement with Weinstein in 1997 over an undetailed incident – has branded Affleck a liar, and posted several tweets encouraging her followers to sign a petition to dissolve the board of The Weinstein Company, which she alleges had knowledge of Weinstein’s behaviour.

Ben Affleck publicly apologises for groping Hilarie Burton in 2003