Hollywood, the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, has long been under scrutiny for its perpetuation of se*ism and gender inequality. While it is a place where dreams come true for many, it is also a place where gender-based discrimination persists.
Over the years, many actresses have come forward with stories of negotiating for equal pay and facing se*ism from studios. Actresses like Jennifer Lawrence, Charlize Theron, and Emma Stone have openly discussed their experiences. The Handmaid’s Tale Star Elisabeth Moss also spoke about being there in such a situation.
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Elisabeth Moss Shared a Shocking Encounter She Had with Some Male Executives
Elisabeth Moss, the star of Mad Men joined the other top actresses to share the se*ist story she faced in the industry.
There was one project she was very passionate about, but it was dropped as it was deemed “too female.” Moss told to Metro:
“I have experienced [se*ism in the workplace] in pitching something that is female-led.”
“I have been told that it was too female. By [male] executives. Everything was too female. It was a female lead, a female protagonist, it was led by a woman. It was too female. I was shocked by it. I won’t say specifically [what it was]… it was in the last couple of years. It’s shocking. It’s almost illegal.”
“It wasn’t said to my face – I would dare a male executive to say it to my face now. You get feedback. We did fine.”
Moss also said that she’s received less money than her male costars in the past.
Some Actresses Who Have Raised Their Voice about Se*ism In Hollywood
There are many brave actresses who have stepped forward to address se*ism and gender inequality in Hollywood. The #MeToo movement, which gained momentum in 2017, brought to the forefront the rampant issue of se*ual harassment in Hollywood.
Jennifer Lawrence’s essay, Why Do I Make Less Than My Male Co-Stars? published in 2015, became a rallying cry for pay equity.
“I have experienced sexism in that I have been directed by male directors 17 times and only twice by women,” said Emma Watson to The Guardian in 2014.
Lena Dunham, in a speech at Variety‘s Power of Women luncheon, spoke candidly about having been sexually assaulted. Kristen Stewart, the Clouds of Sils Maria actress said in a new interview with Harper’s Bazaar UK (Via Variety), “Hollywood is disgustingly sexist. It’s so offensive it’s crazy.”
Beyoncé in an interview with GQ in 2013 said that equality is a myth.
“You know, equality is a myth, and for some reason, everyone accepts the fact that women don’t make as much money as men do. I don’t understand that. Why do we have to take a backseat?”
Hollywood is a powerful influencer, shaping societal norms and attitudes and it must ensure that all those voices are not just heard but acted upon, creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Source: Metro
