Kate Beckinsale has joined her voice to the ongoing conversation about mistreatment in the film industry, inspired by Blake Lively’s current legal battle with Justin Baldoni. An emotional, all-hearted Instagram video saw 51-year-old Beckinsale speak to her on-set challenges and how such incidents have taken their emotional toll over the years.
“I don’t know Blake Lively or Justin Baldoni, and I have never worked with them, but what happened in their case puts light on a problem that is systemic,” said Beckinsale. She also highlighted how women coming forward against any misbehavior are often met with structured backlash-a “machine effect,” as she called it.
Professional and Personal Challenges
Beckinsale recalled one particular incident in which she was belittled for complaining about a co-star’s unprofessional behavior. The intoxication of her co-actor on the sets every day led to delays in the shooting, which also kept her on standby, thus affecting her family time. She was labeled in a derogatory manner by colleagues for raising valid concern.
In another expose, the actress related that for one of her roles, she was put on a harsh diet and exercise regimen, which caused her severe physical trauma. “I lost my period twice during that time,” she related. She also talked about being put in hazardous conditions during stunt sequences while shooting two different films, both of which left her injured enough to seek medical attention.
Pressure From Within
The challenges Beckinsale faced were not limited to external dynamics on set either. She spoke of a very personal example involving a publicist who insisted she attend a photo shoot right after a miscarriage and threatened her with legal consequences if she did not turn up.
These examples, Beckinsale noted, barely touch on the systemic issues so many women face within the industry. “Times may be changing, but these problems aren’t going away,” she added, noting such solidarity will be necessary for true change to take hold.
Empowering Others Through Advocacy
Speaking to Blake Lively’s recent lawsuit against him, Baldoni received kudos from Beckinsale for being brave. The 37-year-old actress had accused Baldoni of harassment and manipulative behavior to besmirch her reputation, which he has denied.
Beckinsale praised Lively for using her platform to highlight such ongoing struggles. “What Blake is doing reminds us this isn’t just some relic of the past. It’s happening today, and it has to stop,” she added.
By speaking out, Beckinsale hopes to contribute to a cultural shift that supports people who come forward with their stories. Her message is one of listening and amplifying voices that bring up inequities, fostering an environment where accountability prevails.
