Emma Thompson 'urges hotel not to sack waiter over selfie request'
Dame Emma Thompson has come to the defence of a waiter who was suspended for asking one of her famous friends for a selfie.
The Nanny McPhee actress was eating out at Brown’s hotel in London’s Mayfair at the weekend when one of the waiting staff broke protocol by asking a celebrity in Thompson’s party who has not been identified, if they would pose for a photograph with them.
According to The Sunday Times Thompson - who has in the past been very outspoken about her dislike of selfies - politely declined on behalf of her companion, explaining that a photograph would be an intrusion.
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The five-star hotel - owned by Rocco Forte Hotels chain - has a strict policy against photography, and the senior waiter was reportedely suspended “until further notice”.
But when the newspaper approached Thompson for a comment, the actress was reportedly “horrified” to learn the waiter had been suspended.
A representative for Thompson confirmed to Yahoo UK that she has since contacted the restaurant to ask for their job to be reinstated.
Brown’s said in a statement: “Caring a great deal for the privacy and wellbeing of both team members and guests, we are unable to make further comment on this matter.”
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Thompson is currently filming prequel movie Cruella on location in London with Emma Stone.
The 60-year-old actress is known to be against selfies.
At the Empire Awards in 2014 she said: "I wouldn't dream of taking a selfie with anyone. God almighty!
"That's to take narcissism to its unspeakable extremes," she continued, adding: "No, get a life, everyone. Just saying."