Actor Matthew Lawrence recently shared a harrowing experience he faced in the film industry during an episode of his Brotherly Love podcast. The actor claimed that he was offered a role in a Marvel production but only if he stripped for an Oscar-winning director.
Lawrence recounted how he was sent to a hotel room where the director was waiting for him in a robe. The director then allegedly asked Lawrence to take his clothes off and take Polaroids of him. In exchange for complying with his demands, the director promised Lawrence the role in the Marvel production.
The actor refused to comply with the director’s demands, and subsequently, his agency fired him. Lawrence lamented the double standard that exists in the industry when it comes to male actors speaking up about sexual harassment.
He pointed to the case of Terry Crews, who faced ridicule and was ostracized after speaking out about his own experience of sexual harassment. Lawrence noted that society is less receptive to hearing about male actors experiencing sexual harassment, especially when it involves men who embody traditional masculinity.
Lawrence’s story sheds light on the pervasive issue of sexual harassment in the film industry, affecting both men and women. While he acknowledged that the experiences of women in the industry are often worse, he emphasized the need for men to speak out and address the issue as well.
The film industry has seen a wave of allegations and accusations of sexual harassment in recent years, leading to the downfall of several prominent figures. Lawrence’s story serves as a reminder that there is still a long way to go in creating a safe and respectful work environment for all actors.