Blake Lively, a celebrated actress, faces public backlash primarily due to her film 'It Ends With Us,' sparking conversations about the misogyny that often accompanies the success of women in Hollywood. The discussion also pays tribute to Matthew Perry, remembered for his role in Friends, exploring the complex dynamics of addiction and its impacts on personal relationships. Join the hosts as they unpack the culture of critique surrounding female celebrities and the tragic realities of those struggling with addiction.
Blake Lively's recent backlash highlights the societal expectations placed on women in the public eye, often ignoring systemic issues.
The investigation into Matthew Perry's death reveals troubling ethical violations in healthcare, exacerbated by the pressures of celebrity culture.
Deep dives
The Resurgence of 'Demure' in Culture
The term 'demure' has made a notable comeback, primarily driven by a TikTok trend where users humorously reinterpret its meaning. Originally shared by creator Jules Lebron, the trend highlights a sarcastic take on femininity, where users evaluate everyday actions like eating donuts or dressing for work through the lens of being 'demure.' This trend reflects broader cultural moments where humor intersects with current social norms, revealing how TikTok both shapes and reflects societal conversations. As the internet rapidly evolves, such memes create a sense of belonging while simultaneously leaving many feeling out of the loop, illustrating the fast-paced and sometimes confusing nature of online culture.
Insights from the Logies Awards
The Logies, Australia's premier television awards, served as a dramatic backdrop for personal reflections among attendees, particularly Mia Friedman, who humorously documented her experiences. The event's structure had attendees seated for extended periods, creating a mix of excitement and anxiety, as well as opportunities for genuine connection amidst the fanfare. Mia’s recounting of her lack of preparation contrasted with the meticulous styling of other attendees, showcasing the humorous side of red-carpet anxiety. The event also evoked emotional responses, with heartfelt speeches from winners touching on family and the significance of recognition in the industry.
Blake Lively Under Fire
Blake Lively has found herself at the center of a viral backlash, triggered by perceptions of her behavior and marketing choices related to her new film addressing domestic violence. Criticisms intensified around how she publicly presented herself and remarks made during press events, leading to a larger narrative that framed her as tone-deaf and unsympathetic to serious themes. The scrutiny reflects a broader societal tendency to hold women in the public eye to stringent standards, often overlooking systemic factors at play in the entertainment industry. Amid the backlash, discussions about the nature of celebrity culture highlight the complexities of public perception, amplifying the need for critical engagement with narratives surrounding successful women.
The Tragic Death of Matthew Perry
Matthew Perry's death has been linked to a serious investigation involving five individuals connected to the misuse of ketamine, a powerful anesthetic often recognized for its therapeutic uses. As details emerged, it became apparent that Perry, despite his public struggles with addiction, was allegedly receiving excessive doses from a doctor and personal assistant who prioritized profit over ethical medical standards. This case emphasizes the dangers of exploiting celebrity status within the healthcare system, exposing the potential for harm when vulnerable individuals are surrounded by those who fail to say no. Perry's tragic story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding addiction and the importance of responsible medical care in the face of overwhelming celebrity pressures.
Our very own Mia Freedman went to the Logies and she’s very, very tired. But also, she’s a professional, so she’s bringing us all the tea from TV's night of nights.
Plus, why is absolutely everything suddenly Blake Lively’s fault? We unpack why she's still at the centre of mighty backlash.
And, we discuss why five people have been charged with the death of Friends icon Matthew Perry.
Hosts: Holly Wainwright, Mia Freedman & Jessie Stephens
Producer: Emeline Gazilas
Audio Production: Leah Porges
Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.