Robert Pattinson has been in seclusion since Kristen Stewart was caught cheating on him with Rupert Sanders. Pattinson’s film, Cosmopolis, will open in New York and Los Angeles on August 17. After the scandal broke there was speculation as to whether or not he’d honour his promotional commitments. It’s confirmed now that Pattinson will attend the New York premiere and appear on Good Morning America for an interview on August 15. I’ve never liked him more.

Many of his peers would beg off. Many of his peers do beg off for less. Of course they’ll go easy on him, and there will be strict ground rules about what can and cannot be asked. But I can’t imagine GMA will let that elephant stay in the room without addressing it somehow, be it gently or more obviously:

“How ARE you Rob? It’s been a rough few weeks, hasn’t it?”

To be fair, Pattinson’s not the one who behaved badly. Pattinson is a victim. He’s not being crucified. And still... it has to be embarrassing. There’s nothing worse for actors, so narcissistic, selfish, self-indulgent, and insecure, than to face embarrassment. Criticism is better than embarrassment. That Pattinson is willing to confront it shows some character. I might actually find that attractive. And besides, there’s some pragmatism happening here too. Cosmopolis was directed by David Cronenberg. David Cronenberg would want his big star pimping his movie. Even more so to capitalise on all that goodwill and sympathy currently being sent Pattinson’s way.

Let them love you. Let them heal you. At the box office...?