A wave of recent sexual misconduct allegations against powerful men in Hollywood has forced the film industry to take a long hard look at itself.

Alec Baldwin is among those who has done some reflecting, and he recently admitted that he hasn't always treated women as well as he should have. The actor was honored Thursday by the Paley Center for Media, and he took the opportunity to own up to some past sexist behavior while highlighting the need for change.

"I certainly have treated women in a very sexist way," Baldwin said, according to THR. "I've bullied women. I've overlooked women. I've underestimated women."

He clarified that he hasn't behaved that way "as a rule" but has done such things "from time to time." As Baldwin explained it, treating women differently than men is a holdover of his generation -- one that he now plans to fight.

"I'd like that to change," he said. "I really would like that to change."

Baldwin went on to admit that he had heard rumors of some inappropriate incidents in the past, but that he had not realized what a widespread problem existed in Hollywood. The experience, he said, was "eye-opening."

"We've got to be vigilant in a new way to make sure that everybody is comfortable and that we get the job done together that we're there to do," he said.

Baldwin's comments come after numerous troubling allegations have come to light, including against Harvey Weinstein (who denies any allegations of non-consensual sex) and Brett Ratner (who denies all allegations). In light of the scandals, industry heavy hitters have been speaking in support of the men and women who have come forward with their stories, and calling for change. Hopefully, those calls will now be followed up with action.

[via: THR]