Olivia Colman Speaks Out on Gender Pay Disparity in Hollywood: “I Would Be Paid ‘A F**k of a Lot More’ If I Were a Man”
British actress Olivia Colman, an Academy Award-winning star, has expressed her frustration over the gender pay gap in the film industry. During a recent interview with Thea Sharrock, director of her latest film “Wicked Little Letters,” Colman passionately addressed the issue while discussing the persistent misconception that women don’t draw in audiences as much as men, thereby justifying lower wages.
Colman, 50, was responding to a question from Thea Sharrock regarding female actors being considered “big box office draws.” Sharrock acknowledged that women have always been significant contributors to box office success but were often overlooked in terms of compensation. Colman then interjected, expressing her deep concern over the disparity:
“Don’t get me started on the pay disparity,” Colman exclaimed. “Male actors get paid more because, for years, they have been told they draw in audiences. However, research shows that this isn’t true. Yet, the industry still clings to this notion as a reason not to pay women their fair share compared to men.”
When Christiane Amanpour, News Finder’s interviewer, inquired about her personal experience with pay disparity, Colman confidently stated, “I’m well aware that if I were Oliver Colman, I would be earning a significant amount more than I currently am.”
Colman also revealed an instance of pay disparity she was aware of that equated to a staggering 12,000% difference between two individuals’ salaries. However, she did not disclose any further details.
Sharrock and Colman came together to discuss their new comedy film based on a historic poison pen letter scandal that shook an English seaside town over a century ago. In “Wicked Little Letters,” Jessie Buckley plays the young Irish newcomer accused of sending out a series of malicious letters to conservative town residents.
When asked about swearing on set, Sharrock admitted that Colman is “incredibly potty-mouthed,” adding, “We all are.” Colman agreed and shared her belief that a well-placed curse word can enhance the dialogue. When asked about her favorite curse word, she revealed that American audiences are less receptive to her preferred term but tried to justify it by mentioning its historical use by Chaucer.
Colman and Sharrock’s interview provided insight into the gender pay disparity in Hollywood while also shedding light on their collaboration on “Wicked Little Letters,” a comedy about scandal and social norms.
