Charlize Theron Reveals She Was Once Harassed By A Hollywood Producer
Over the past few years, the world of filmmaking has seen a seismic shift. The Harvey Weinstein scandal and #MeToo movement put a spotlight on sexual harassment in the workplace, and how female members of the community have been suffering in silence. Plenty of major actresses have used their voice in the years since the dam broke, and now it looks like Oscar winner Charlize Theron had her own harrowing experience.
Charlize Theron is currently promoting her upcoming comedy Long Shot, including an appearance on the famous Howard Stern Show. Stern eventually brought up the subject of the #MeToo movement and the behavior of Hollywood execs, when Theron revealed she experienced harassment early in her career. She said:
While Charlize Theron is a well-known working actress with an impressive career, there was a time when she was still trying to break into the industry. And when asking around for a possible audition, she ended up being convinced to meet a prominent Hollywood producer in his home. And when he answered the door, Theron was surprised to see the unnamed exec was in his pajamas.
In her conversation with Howard Stern and Long Shot co-star Seth Rogen, Charlize Theron went on to speak about her harrowing experience, and the red flags she noticed throughout her first "audition." She went on,
Charlize Theron didn't name names when recounting her past on Howard Stern, she did reveal that he's still a powerful man in the industry. That fact makes her story even more disturbing, although you can't blame her for not revealing her harasser's identity on the air. But she went on to reveal that she got away from the situation, and that her feelings about the incident have evolved over time. Theron revealed:
Charlize Theron's comments echo what other survivors have said about the guilt and anger that can accompany #MeToo incidents. But while it may be difficult to share, Theron's honesty adds to the many voices addressing the issue of sexual harassment, especially as it relates to show business.
While there are many #MeToo stories from within Hollywood, it does look like the conversations and minds are changing over the past few years. One can only hope that the world will be a safer place, as sexual harassment is certainly not a problem exclusive to showbusiness.
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Charlize Theron can be seen in Long Shot on May 3rd. In the meantime, check out our 2019 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.
Corey was born and raised in New Jersey. Graduated with degrees theater and literature from Ramapo College of New Jersey. After working in administrative theater for a year in New York, he started as the Weekend Editor at CinemaBlend. He's since been able to work himself up to reviews, phoners, and press junkets-- and is now able to appear on camera with some of his favorite actors... just not as he would have predicted as a kid. He's particularly proud of covering horror franchises like Scream and Halloween, as well as movie musicals like West Side Story. Favorite interviews include Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more.