The Traitors star Julie Hesmondhalgh has shared a different perspective on women's appearance, stating they can be sexually attractive regardless of their looks. The 56-year-old actress, best known for her role as Hayley Cropper in Coronation Street, has been in the spotlight again after joining the BBC show, though she was banished from the castle earlier this month.
Reflecting on her 2017 role as rape survivor Trish Winterman in Broadchurch, her character was described as an 'ordinary-looking middle-aged woman' who was cruelly asked, 'Of all the women at that party, why would someone rape you? It doesn't make sense.'
Addressing 'internalised misogyny,' she said: 'Part of me still believed rape is an act of desire when it's not. It's an act of violence and power.
I had to fight the idea that I could not be desirable.' Julie referenced her Traitors co-star Maya Jama, adding: 'I just have to remember that women understand you can be sexually attractive without looking like Maya Jama.' Julie was the third celebrity to be banished from the show after her peers became convinced she was a Traitor.
Her departure sparked significant conversation among viewers regarding the societal pressures placed on women to conform to specific beauty standards. The actress emphasized that the media often perpetuates a narrow definition of attractiveness, which can be damaging to women's self-esteem.
She argued that true attractiveness is not solely defined by youth or conventional beauty norms. Her comments have resonated with many fans who appreciate her candid approach to discussing complex issues.
By speaking out, she hopes to encourage a more inclusive understanding of beauty and desirability. The Traitors continues to be a platform where diverse personalities interact, and Julie's presence, though brief, left a lasting impact on the audience's perception of the game and its participants.
As she moves forward in her career, Julie remains committed to portraying authentic characters that challenge stereotypes and promote meaningful dialogue about the challenges women face in the entertainment industry. Ultimately, her message serves as a reminder that every individual possesses inherent value and that beauty should be celebrated in all its diverse forms, rather than being restricted by outdated societal expectations.