Say Anything's Max Bemis has canceled a run of upcoming concerts after a teenage girl posted screenshots documenting an alleged months-long interaction with her over texting and social media.
A 17-year-old girl, who says her name is also Max but identified herself as Maxine for clarity's sake, posted the screenshots on the Say Anything subreddit along with an account of her interactions with Bemis. "I want to start this out my saying, yes, I did entertain and engage some of his behavior towards me and I will admit that. I also want to add that I am a trafficking victim, this is a negative behavior (that max knew about, I will touch on this more later) that me and my therapist are very actively working on, and my therapist is aware of my relationship with max."
According to Maxine's screenshots and written account, Bemis responded enthusiastically to her photos, discussed sex toys, and encouraged her to write a poem about masturbation, among other intimate interactions. Maxine says Bemis began communicating with her in March, shortly after she gave birth to a child, and that he referred to her as a "milf." She also says he sought out her advice on how to help another teenage sex trafficking victim. "Max knows that I seek out inappropriate relationships with older males, I have told him about this," Maxine wrote. "At which he took advantage."
Bemis, 42, was set to perform a short run of solo acoustic shows beginning Friday. Saturday, a post on Say Anything's Instagram account read, "Due to the need to prioritize his mental health and personal well-being, Max Bemis' upcoming performances have been postponed. Max will be taking the necessary time away to focus on his health. We appreciate everyone's understanding, patience, and respect for his privacy at this time." Last year Bemis and wife Sherri DuPree announced their separation after 16 years of marriage. Cherry Soda, a collaborative album by Say Anything and Wavves, is scheduled for release next month.
If you or someone you know has undergone sexual abuse, please visit rainn.org or contact the National Sexual Assault Helpline at 1-800-656-4673.
