Actor Matthew Lawrence recently discussed the issue of sexual harassment in Hollywood in the latest episode of the Brotherly Love podcast. The 43-year-old shared a disturbing encounter he had with an Oscar-winning director, without revealing the director’s name.
Lawrence shared that he had been propositioned many times in his life to get a huge role, but lost his agency after going to the hotel room of the prominent director, who showed up in his robe and asked Lawrence to take his clothes off. The director said he needed to take Polaroids of Lawrence and promised him a role in Marvel movies if he agreed to do X, Y, and Z.
Lawrence declined the offer and was later sacked by his agency as he left the hotel room. Reflecting on the #MeTooMovement, the actor described it as a “very good thing” but pointed out that men did not receive the same support as women in the wake of sexual harassment allegations.
He said that a lot of his male friends had also experienced sexual harassment in the industry, but there was a double standard, and Terry Crews was laughed at when he spoke out about his experience. Lawrence emphasized that men go through this as well, though not to the same extent as women.
The issue of sexual harassment in Hollywood has been in the spotlight for several years, with many actors and actresses coming forward with their stories. While the #MeTooMovement brought attention to the issue, it also highlighted the need for more comprehensive support for victims and greater accountability for perpetrators.
As Lawrence’s story illustrates, sexual harassment is a pervasive problem in Hollywood, affecting not only women but also men. It’s crucial that the industry continues to address this issue and create a safer and more equitable workplace for all.
