New York [USA], May 25 (NT): Following the accusations of sexual misconduct against Oscar winner Morgan Freeman, the Screen Actors Guild is rethinking the Lifetime Achievement Award they accorded the former.

"These are compelling and devastating allegations which are absolutely contrary to all the steps that we are taking to insure (sic) a safe work environment for the professionals in this industry," the Committee said in a statement via a SAG-AFTRA talking head, as quoted by CNN.

"Any accused person has the right to due process, but it is our starting point to believe the courageous voices who come forward to report incidents of harassment. Given Mr. Freeman recently received one of our union's most prestigious honors recognizing his body of work, we are therefore reviewing what corrective actions may be warranted at this time," it further said.

For the not conversant, the 80-year-old actor has been alleged of 'inappropriate behaviour and harassment' by women.

A young production assistant, who, back in 2015, began work on 'Going In Style', which is a bank heist comedy starring Freeman, made allegations  that he subjected her to unnecessary touching and remarks about her figure and clothing on a near-daily basis.

“The actor would even rest his hand on her lower back or rub her lower back” , she further alleged according to ANI.

In all, 16 people address to CNN about Freeman as part of the inquiry eight witnesses and eight who appeared as the victims.