A couple of weeks ago, actress Rose McGowan, known for her roles in the television show Charmed and the movie Death Proof, tweeted a casting note which included these instructions:
“Please make sure to read the attached script before coming in so you understand the context of the scenes. Wardrobe note: Black (or dark) form fitting tank that shows off cleavage (push up bras encouraged). And form fitting leggings or jeans. Nothing white.”
She included a hint to the male star of the film: a name rhyiming with “Madam Panhandler,” i.e. Adam Sandler, a popular male star known for his never-ending list of comedies often based on sexist and cheap humour.
As a feminist, McGowan has always been a supportor of social justice causes and equal rights for women. For example, last November, she spoke out about the misogyny inside the LGBT community.
Still, calling out a big name like Adam Sandler is a bold move. It wasn’t a surprise when a week following McGowan’s tweet, she revealed this new development:
“I just got fired by my wussy acting agent because I spoke up about the bullshit in Hollywood.” – Rose McGowan, Twitter
But rather than back down, McGowan included the hashtags “awesome” and “bring it” in capital letters to show that she’s ready to take on the fight.
The fact that your beliefs and morals can cost you jobs is known by everyone, but this is just another clear example of how sexism still dominates the movie industry.
McGowan sharing her experiences is fundamental if we, as a society, ever want to see a change in the status quo. It’s a brave decision and, despite leading to possibly less money for her, it means she will become stronger and more confident in her principles and also bring new awareness to the issue.
So, take from this text, a reminder. Don’t passively accept this sort of behaviour. It’s hard to speak up, I know — countless times, we’ve all been through awkward social situations where sexism happens. But it’s not a funny joke and you don’t have to laugh. Instead, try and point out what’s wrong with what the person said. And by letting people know, like McGowan did, perhaps we can change a person or two.
Image credit: ouchpress.com
