Film

Brie Larson Has Addressed Her Decision Not To Applaud Casey Affleck At The Oscars

"I think that whatever it was that I did onstage kind of spoke for itself."

by Tom Clift  11 March 2017

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This post discusses sexual assault.

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When Casey Affleck won Best Actor at the Academy Awards late last month, a lot of folks were understandably upset. People had hoped, perhaps naively, that accusations of sexual assault might make Academy members think twice before ticking Affleck’s name on their Oscar ballot. How silly of us.

Among those who seemed most disappointed by Affleck’s win was last year’s Best Actress winner Brie Larson. Many viewers noted that Larson, who won her Oscar for her portrayal of a sexual assault survivor in Room, and who is a vocal advocate for sexual assault survivors in real life, opted not to applaud Affleck after presenting him with his trophy, a move some people interpreted as a form of silent protest.

Now, in an interview with Variety, Larson has confirmed that her decision not to clap was intentional, while tiptoeing around her exact motivations.

“I think that whatever it was that I did onstage kind of spoke for itself,” she told the publication at the Hollywood premiere of her new movie Kong: Skull Island this week. “I’ve said all that I need to say about that topic.”

Look, it’s not an open condemnation, but read between the lines people.

For the record, Affleck was sued for sexual harassment in 2010 by two female crew members who worked on his film I’m Still Here. The case was settled out of court.

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If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.

Men can access anonymous confidential telephone counselling to help to stop using violent and controlling behaviour through the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.