Australian actress Sarah Snook, known for her Emmy-winning performance in “Succession,” recently opened up about her experiences with body shaming in the film industry. In a candid interview with “BBC Radio 4’s Today program,” Snook revealed that she was too “young and naive” to confront a film producer who publicly berated her for eating cake on set. This incident, along with another instance of body shaming, has left a lasting impact on the actress.
A Culture of Unattainable Standards
Snook recalled a conversation with a casting director who told her that although the director and writer believed she was perfect for a role, they needed to alter her appearance to make her more marketable. This included whitening her teeth, darkening her hair, and providing a personal trainer to help her lose weight. Such expectations reflect the unattainable standards placed on actors in the industry.
Chastised for Having Cake
Another incident that Snook vividly remembered was when a film producer reprimanded her in front of the cast and crew for eating a small piece of chocolate cake. Despite feeling humiliated, she continued to eat after a costume designer intervened and encouraged her. Snook admitted that she felt crushed inside but lacked the confidence to stand up against the body shaming.
Naivety and the Abuse of Authority
When asked why she didn’t push back against these instances of body shaming, Snook responded, “I was too young and naive.” She acknowledged the unfortunate reality of a person in a position of authority mindlessly making comments that can have a lasting impact on someone’s life. Snook’s experience highlights the power imbalances that exist within the industry and the need for change.
Speaking Out Against Injustices
Snook is not alone in her experiences. Recently, “Ted Lasso” Emmy winner Hannah Waddingham revealed how a drama teacher once told her she would never work on screen due to her physical appearance. However, Waddingham refused to let the insult define her and went on to build a successful career. Both Snook and Waddingham’s stories shed light on the resilience and determination required to overcome the obstacles faced in the entertainment industry.
Embracing Self-Acceptance
Snook emphasized that she no longer adheres to any imposed dietary restrictions from producers or others. She now confidently asserts her autonomy over her body and food choices. “I eat whatever I want, it’s my own body and my own choice,” she stated.
Sarah Snook’s revelation serves as a reminder of the importance of challenging harmful beauty standards and fostering a supportive environment in the film industry. As more actors come forward to share their experiences, it becomes clear that change is necessary. By creating a culture that celebrates diversity and embraces self-acceptance, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and respectful entertainment industry.
To read more about Sarah Snook’s experiences with body shaming, visit F5mag.com.