The Oldest Profession Podcast Mae West: Unapologetic Sex Symbol
Oct 5, 2022
Explore the fascinating life of Mae West, a trailblazing actress and unapologetic sex symbol who challenged societal norms in entertainment. Discover her early years and family influences that shaped her ambitions. Delve into her incredible resilience, from prison to Hollywood stardom, and her ingenious ways of turning challenges into humor. Learn about her lasting legacy in the arts, her bold performances, and her significant impact on the LGBTQ+ community and the stigma surrounding sex work. Mae West truly left her mark on history!
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Mae West and Sex Work Stigma
- Mae West was never a sex worker but shared space and stigma with sex workers through her play "Sex" which led to her arrest for obscenity.
- She faced whorephobia and had consensual relationships with backers but differed from sex workers who get paid upfront.
Early Support and Breaking Gender Norms
- Mae West's mother, Matilda, was a corset model who supported Mae's early performances despite social norms.
- Her father, a famous boxer, taught her to weightlift, breaking gender stereotypes.
Childhood Confidence on Stage
- Mae West performed professionally at age seven and exhibited self-confidence, demanding the spotlight before singing.
- This assertiveness became a foundation for her lifelong career defying norms for women.
