It's a tale as old as time. The bright lights, stars, and glamour of Hollywood have an irresistible pull for young women all over the world. Each with their talents and aspirations, wanting just to be respected as a credible actress. After months or years of chasing a dream, the 'big break' comes, and our heroine grabs it. But what happens when these talented ladies find out that all that glistens isn't always gold? Are things improving and what is changing attitudes in Hollywood?
If there is one thing we know, it's that you have to be tough to get on in Hollywood. Eccentricity, egoism, beauty, and riches are everywhere you turn - but no one got there by chance. There is one devastating trait that has marred Hollywood through the ages and continues to this day: narcissism and prejudice.
What Is Narcissism?
Narcissism and prejudice go hand in hand. Narcissism was popularised as a concept by Sigmund Freud and affects around 1% of the population. At it's worst, it can render a person completely self-obsessed, requiring subservience and a need to be held in the highest authority by others. The result is a constant lack of respect for others.
Narcissists especially despise criticism - and here we come to a problem. Hollywood is, by nature, full of people eager to make their mark on the world, with their ideas and their viewpoints. Enter stage left a Hollywood director with seemingly endless budgets and power; from stage right appears our strong and independent lioness ready to make her name. It's a heady - and delicate - mix.
Do These People Really Exist In Hollywood?
Absolutely - actresses have been subjected to treatment as second class citizens for decades in the film industry. Constant retakes, script changes, inappropriate behaviors, differences in pay, and grueling filming schedules are enough to make even the strongest leading lady feel exhausted.
But things are changing... and quickly.
Who Is Addressing Prejudice, And How?
So what is changing attitudes in Hollywood? The #MeToo movement has undoubtedly raised the profile of the rights of women in Hollywood. It has brought to the forefront not just examples of cases of mistreatment and disrespect but has initiated real change.
Priyanka Chopra was voted one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time Magazine. Forbes listed her in the 100 Most Powerful Women in 2017. It doesn't stop there: Priyanka has also represented UNICEF as a goodwill ambassador.
Another leading lady with impressive credentials is Angelina Jolie. Named as a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador from 2001 to 2012, and founder of the Maddox Jolie-Pitt Foundation, she has campaigned for improvements in health, education, and women's empowerment in Cambodia since 2006.
What Does The Future Hold?
Yes, folks: change. And lots of it. We are seeing a greater awareness that voices need to be heard; equality of all kinds being celebrated, and the Covid-19 pandemic reminds us that life really can be too short. People are coming together like never before.
The respect due to women in Hollywood is finally beginning to shine through. Equality counts - in all its guises. Togetherness and solidarity are slowly overtaking narcissism and prejudice in the glittering Hollywood Hills.
It's the news we've all been waiting for.
