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Director’s Uncomfortable Request: Geena Davis Recalls Lap-Sitting Audition Incident

Geena Davis, an Oscar-winning actress, recently shared a disturbing experience from her early career in Hollywood.

During an audition, a director asked her to sit on his lap for a scene, which made her feel uneasy and uncomfortable.

This incident occurred at the beginning of her 37-year acting journey, highlighting a prevalent issue in the industry.

Recalling the unsettling moment, the 63-year-old mother of three recounted how the director instructed her to act out a scene that involved sitting on the male character’s lap.

The nature of the scene was described as “kind of s**y,” and Davis expressed her discomfort with the situation.

She admitted that at that time, she didn’t feel empowered to refuse such requests.

Before movements like #MeToo and Time’s Up gained momentum, Davis faced numerous similar instances of harassment and inappropriate behavior.

These experiences ultimately led her to establish the Institute on Gender in Media in 2007, aiming to address gender disparities and mistreatment in the entertainment industry.

In light of current advocacy efforts, Geena Davis expressed hope that women will no longer have to endure such uncomfortable situations.

She emphasized the importance of setting boundaries and avoiding potentially compromising scenarios, especially when meeting with male counterparts in private settings.

Despite facing challenges early in her career, Davis went on to collaborate with renowned directors such as Sydney Pollack, David Cronenberg, Tim Burton, and Ridley Scott.

Her resilience and talent propelled her to work on various projects, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the craft of acting.

In a recent role, Davis portrayed Sandy Devereaux St. Clair, the manager of the Fan-Tan Hotel, in the latest season of the popular series GLOW.

The character’s background as a former showgirl resonated with Davis, who found inspiration in depicting a woman transitioning from performing to management.

On a personal note, Geena Davis has been embroiled in a legal dispute with her estranged fourth husband, Dr. Reza Jarrahy.

The neurosurgeon filed for divorce in 2018 after 16 years of marriage, seeking financial support and custody arrangements for their children.

The ongoing legal battle has shed light on the actress’s personal struggles amidst her professional successes.

As Geena Davis continues to navigate the complexities of her personal and professional life, her experiences serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry.

By sharing her story and advocating for change, she contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding gender equality and respect in Hollywood.