Geena Davis, the renowned actress who stars in Season 3 of GLOW and is a prominent figure in the fight for gender equality, recently shared a troubling incident from her early career.
In an interview with USA Today, Davis disclosed that she has encountered numerous instances of inappropriate behavior in the workplace, shedding light on the pervasive issue of sexism in Hollywood.
Recalling one particular uncomfortable audition, Davis recounted being asked by a director to act out a scene that involved sitting on his lap.
The actress, known for her roles in iconic films like Thelma & Louise and A League of Their Own, expressed discomfort with the situation but felt unsure about refusing the director’s request at the time.
Describing the incident as involving a “s**y scene,” Davis emphasized her lack of awareness regarding her ability to decline such demands.
She hopes that the current climate, marked by movements like #MeToo and Time’s Up, will prevent young actors from facing similar challenges in their careers.
With the release of the documentary This Changes Everything, which addresses gender disparity in the film industry, Davis advocates for long-overdue changes to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for women.
The film features insights from notable figures like Meryl Streep, Natalie Portman, and Tiffany Haddish, along with industry professionals and experts.
Reflecting on her journey towards advocating for equality, Davis shared how becoming a mother to her daughter Alizeh in 2002 sparked her awareness of gender representation in children’s media.
Observing the lack of female characters in entertainment aimed at young audiences, she became determined to address this imbalance and raise awareness about unconscious biases in the industry.
Inspired by her experience working alongside Susan Sarandon in Thelma & Louise, Davis credits her co-star for teaching her the importance of speaking up and challenging societal norms.
Encouraged by Sarandon’s boldness and assertiveness, Davis embarked on a mission to amplify the voices of women in the entertainment industry and push for greater visibility and opportunities.
As the conversation around gender equality and empowerment continues to gain momentum, Davis remains committed to using her platform to advocate for change and promote diversity in the entertainment sector.
By sharing her own experiences and insights, she hopes to inspire a new generation of actors and filmmakers to challenge existing norms and strive for a more inclusive and equitable industry.
