Anna Faris says she was sexually harassed by a director while on set
In the wake of the Harvey Weinstein allegations, countless women, celebrity and non-celebrity alike, have come forward with heartbreaking stories of harassment and assault — and another actress has just added her voice to those speaking out. Anna Faris revealed that she was sexually harassed by a director while working on a film, and we’re thanking her so much for sharing her story.
She shared her experience on Tuesday’s episode of her Unqualified podcast. While she didn’t name names, her account further illustrates the fact that many actresses have suffered abuse and humiliation at the hands of powerful men in the industry.
Faris said the harassment happened during a scene where her character was on a ladder, putting books back on a shelf. While filming, the director slapped her backside in front of the cast and crew.
“All I could do was giggle,” she said. “I remember looking around and I remember seeing the crew members being like, ‘Wait, what are you going to do about that? That seemed weird. ’ And that’s how I dismissed it. I was like, ‘Well, this isn’t a thing. Like, it’s not that big of a deal. Buck up, Faris. Like, just giggle.’ But it made me feel small. He wouldn’t have done that to the lead male.”
Faris also said that she heard her “great legs” helped her get cast in the first place, which she noted would never be the major reason a male lead was hired.
Faris concluded by saying she believes women are conditioned to “giggle” when faced with these kind of highly uncomfortable situations, lest they risk being “labeled a bitch or difficult.”
No one should have to tolerate humiliating experiences for the sake of their careers and job security, and we’re so glad Faris has added her voice to the many who have already spoken out. Everyone who shares their story helps to chip away at the stigma of coming forward, as well as at the “normalcy” of daily harassment.
