Actresses Who Publicly Called Out Lack of Diversity on Their Own Sets

Representation in the entertainment industry has long been a subject of advocacy for performers from marginalized backgrounds. Many prominent actresses have used their public platforms to address the systemic lack of diversity they encountered while working on major film and television productions. These public statements often highlight critical gaps in staffing including the makeup of production crews and the specific needs of actors in the hair and beauty departments. By sharing their personal experiences these women have pushed for meaningful structural changes and more inclusive environments across the global media landscape.

Viola Davis

The Academy Award winning actress has frequently addressed the lack of experienced hairstylists for Black hair on the sets of her various projects. She noted that she often had to style her own hair or provide her own products because the professional crew members did not understand her hair texture. Davis emphasized that true inclusion requires behind the scenes teams to be as diverse as the cast members appearing on screen. Her advocacy has sparked important conversations about the necessity of equitable resources for all performers regardless of their racial background.

Gabrielle Union

While serving as a judge on ‘Americas Got Talent’ the actress raised significant concerns regarding a toxic work environment and a lack of cultural sensitivity. She reported specific instances where racially insensitive comments were made and noted that the production lacked the oversight to address them effectively. Union eventually filed a formal complaint to address the systemic issues she encountered during her time on the series. Her actions highlighted the urgent need for better accountability and representative leadership in reality television production.

Thandiwe Newton

Newton has been vocal about the exclusion she felt throughout her career and on major sets such as ‘Solo A Star Wars Story’ where she felt her character was underutilized. She expressed frustration that characters of color are often treated as disposable rather than being integral to the narrative. The actress has also called out the lack of diverse voices in the writers rooms of large film franchises. Her comments focus on the importance of creating meaningful roles that reflect a wider range of human experiences.

Sandra Oh

While working on the series ‘Killing Eve’ the actress pointed out a visible lack of diversity among the production crew in the United Kingdom. She noted that the local industry seemed significantly behind other regions in terms of hiring people of color for technical and behind the scenes roles. Oh discussed how being the only person of color in a room can be an isolating and exhausting experience for any performer. She continues to advocate for systemic changes that ensure crews are representative of the communities being depicted on screen.

Zendaya

The star of ‘Euphoria’ has used her influence to demand more diverse casting and storytelling throughout her professional journey. While working on the Disney Channel series ‘KC Undercover’ she insisted that the show feature a diverse family and explore a variety of cultural backgrounds. Zendaya has also spoken about the importance of using her platform to open doors for other young performers of color in Hollywood. She remains committed to ensuring that the next generation of actors does not face the same barriers she once encountered.

Tracee Ellis Ross

As a lead on the series ‘Blackish’ the actress advocated for the inclusion of authentic cultural details that were often overlooked by broad production teams. She emphasized the importance of having Black women in the hair and makeup trailers to ensure proper representation and care for the cast. Ross has also spoken about the need for more diverse perspectives in the high level executive ranks of television networks. Her efforts have helped pave the way for more nuanced and authentic depictions of Black family life on television.

Taraji P. Henson

Henson has recently spoken out about the persistent lack of financial parity and resources for Black actresses on major film sets. During the promotion of ‘The Color Purple’ she highlighted the ongoing struggle for adequate transportation and dressing room facilities during production. She noted that these basic requirements are often provided to her peers while being withheld from performers of color. Her transparency has shed light on the logistical and financial hurdles that continue to affect the modern film industry.

Candice Patton

The star of ‘The Flash’ has been open about the lack of support she received while facing intense racial harassment from fans during the run of the show. She called out the production and the network for failing to provide adequate protection or resources to help her manage the abuse. Patton also mentioned the difficulties of working on a set where her specific needs for hair and makeup were not initially recognized. Her bravery in sharing these experiences has forced a conversation about the duty of care networks owe to their diverse leads.

Vanessa Morgan

Morgan publicly criticized the television series ‘Riverdale’ for the way it handled its Black characters as sidekicks to the white leads. She pointed out that she was the lowest paid series regular despite having a significant role in the overall story. The actress called for more diversity in the writing room to ensure that Black characters are given complex and meaningful story arcs. Following her public statements the creator of the show pledged to increase representation in future seasons.

Amber Riley

The ‘Glee’ actress has shared her experiences regarding the lack of inclusion and the feeling of being sidelined on the set of the popular musical series. She spoke about the importance of recognizing the significant contributions of Black performers who are often relegated to the background. Riley has emphasized that diversity must go beyond simple casting and include a culture of mutual respect and equity on every set. Her comments helped spark a larger movement of actors sharing their stories of mistreatment on high profile television shows.

Samantha Marie Ware

Ware called out a former costar for making her experience on the set of ‘Glee’ a traumatic and unwelcoming environment. She described how the production atmosphere lacked accountability and allowed microaggressions to go unchecked for long periods. Her public statement led to a broader discussion about how lead actors and production staff can contribute to an exclusionary culture for actors of color. Ware has since advocated for more inclusive sets where all performers feel safe and respected.

America Ferrera

Ferrera has often spoken about the narrow casting choices and limiting stereotypes she encountered while working on ‘Ugly Betty’ and other projects. She highlighted how the industry frequently limits Latinx performers to specific roles that do not reflect their full range of talent. The actress has worked to create her own opportunities and produce content that features diverse stories and perspectives. Her advocacy extends to the political sphere where she fights for better representation of marginalized communities in all areas of life.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Chopra has discussed the challenges of transitioning from Bollywood to Hollywood and the lack of diverse roles available to South Asian actors. She noted that she was often asked to lean into stereotypes or play characters where her ethnicity was the only defining trait. The actress has pushed for more leading roles for Indian performers that are not strictly defined by their cultural background. She continues to use her production company to champion stories from around the world that feature diverse casts.

Issa Rae

The creator and star of ‘Insecure’ has been a vocal critic of the lack of opportunities for Black creators in the television industry. She famously stated that she was rooting for everybody Black during an awards show red carpet to highlight the need for more recognition of Black talent. Rae has focused on hiring diverse crews and writers for her own productions to ensure an authentic and representative perspective. Her work has demonstrated the commercial and critical success that comes from investing in underrepresented voices.

Michaela Coel

Coel turned down a massive deal from a major streaming service because they refused to grant her ownership of her work for ‘I May Destroy You’ which she saw as a lack of respect. She has spoken extensively about the need for Black creators to have a seat at the table and full control over their own narratives. The actress and writer often highlights the barriers that exist for marginalized voices in the British television industry. Her success has empowered other creators to demand better terms and more inclusive working environments.

Mindy Kaling

Kaling has addressed the difficulties of being the only woman of color in writers rooms and on the sets of shows like ‘The Office’ early in her career. She spoke about the pressure to represent an entire community while trying to establish her own unique creative voice. The actress has since prioritized diversity in her own productions by casting performers from various backgrounds in lead roles. Her work on shows like ‘Never Have I Ever’ has expanded the range of stories told about the South Asian experience in America.

Jameela Jamil

The ‘The Good Place’ actress has been a vocal advocate for body positivity and the inclusion of disabled and marginalized performers on set. She has called out the industry for its lack of representation across different body types and ethnicities in major productions. Jamil often uses her social media platforms to highlight the ways in which production standards can be exclusionary toward certain groups. Her advocacy focuses on creating a more inclusive and healthy environment for all people working in the entertainment business.

Tia Mowry

Mowry has shared stories about the lack of diverse hairstylists during her time on ‘Sister Sister’ and how it impacted her self esteem as a young actress. She noted that the production did not provide professionals who were trained in caring for her natural hair texture. This led her and her sister to take matters into their own hands to ensure they looked their best on camera. Her honesty about these early experiences has helped bring attention to the ongoing need for diverse beauty teams in Hollywood.

Yvette Nicole Brown

The ‘Community’ star has frequently mentioned the lack of diverse representation in the hair and makeup trailers of major television and film sets. She has discussed the extra burden placed on actors of color who must often bring their own supplies or style their own hair. Brown advocates for the hiring of union professionals who are specifically trained in all hair textures and skin tones. Her efforts aim to make the production process more equitable and professional for every performer involved.

Nathalie Emmanuel

The ‘Game of Thrones’ actress has spoken about the need for more diverse voices in the hair and makeup departments of large scale fantasy productions. She noted that her natural hair often presented a challenge for stylists who were not accustomed to working with it on set. Emmanuel has also addressed the importance of having diverse writers to avoid falling into common tropes for characters of color. She remains a strong voice for inclusion within both the British and American film industries.

Angelica Ross

As a star of ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’ Ross has been a fierce advocate for the inclusion of Black trans women both in front of and behind the camera. She has called out major productions for failing to provide a safe and supportive environment for trans performers. Ross has even threatened to leave the industry to focus on creating her own tech and media platforms that prioritize equity. Her work continues to challenge the industry to move beyond performative diversity and into actual structural change.

Kelly Marie Tran

After facing intense online harassment following her role in ‘Star Wars The Last Jedi’ the actress spoke out about the lack of protection provided by the studio. She addressed the ways in which performers of color are often left to fend for themselves against targeted hate campaigns. Tran has emphasized the importance of studios taking a proactive stand in supporting their diverse cast members during production and release. Her experience has become a central point of discussion regarding the safety of marginalized actors in large franchises.

Gemma Chan

Chan has highlighted the historical lack of East Asian representation in British television and film throughout her extensive career. She has pushed for more diverse casting in period dramas and contemporary stories to better reflect the modern world. The actress has also been involved in initiatives that support Asian creatives and ensure their stories are told authentically. Her success in projects like ‘Eternals’ has allowed her to advocate for broader systemic changes across the global industry.

Chloe Bennet

The ‘Agents of SHIELD’ actress changed her last name from Wang to Bennet early in her career to secure more auditions in a biased industry. She has been open about the racism she faced and the lack of roles available for Asian American performers at the time. Bennet has called out the industry for its exclusionary practices and the constant pressure to conform to Western standards. She remains a vocal advocate for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community in the entertainment business.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

The ‘Abbott Elementary’ star has spent decades advocating for better treatment and representation for Black actresses in Hollywood. She has spoken about the lack of respect and resources she encountered on various sets throughout her long and successful career. Ralph emphasizes the importance of knowing ones worth and demanding the same amenities provided to her white colleagues. Her recent awards success has given her a renewed platform to champion diversity and inclusion for veteran actors.

Regina King

King has used her roles as both an actress and a director to ensure that her sets are diverse and inclusive from the start. She famously pledged to make sure that at least fifty percent of her production crews were composed of women. The actress has spoken about the necessity of intentional hiring practices to overcome systemic biases in the industry. Her leadership serves as a model for how established stars can create tangible change within their own productions.

Kerry Washington

While working on ‘Scandal’ the actress was deeply involved in ensuring the show reflected a diverse range of perspectives and experiences. She has spoken about the importance of having people of color in leadership positions to guide the creative process effectively. Washington has also addressed the need for more inclusive marketing and promotion for projects featuring diverse casts. Her production company focuses on telling stories that amplify underrepresented voices and explore complex social issues.

Octavia Spencer

Spencer has been vocal about the pay disparity that exists for Black women in Hollywood compared to their white counterparts. She famously collaborated with her costars to negotiate for higher pay on joint projects to ensure financial equity. The actress has also called out the lack of diverse representation in the technical crews of the films she stars in. Her efforts have helped highlight the importance of collective bargaining and transparency in the modern entertainment industry.

Danielle Brooks

The ‘Orange Is the New Black’ star has spoken about the lack of representation for plus size women of color in the mainstream media. She has called for more diverse casting that celebrates different body types and cultural backgrounds. Brooks has also addressed the need for more inclusive hair and makeup teams on Broadway and in television productions. Her advocacy aims to ensure that all performers feel seen and valued for their authentic selves during work.

Adrienne Warren

The Tony Award winner has spoken about the challenges of being a Black woman in the theater industry and the lack of diversity in creative leadership. She has pushed for more inclusive casting and the hiring of diverse production teams for major stage shows. Warren has also highlighted the importance of mental health support for performers of color who face unique pressures on set. Her work continues to drive the conversation about equity and inclusion in the performing arts sector.

Cynthia Erivo

Erivo has been a vocal advocate for the authentic representation of Black stories and characters in both film and theater. She has addressed the lack of diversity in the awards season and the systemic barriers that prevent performers of color from being recognized. The actress often discusses the importance of having diverse voices in the writers room to ensure cultural accuracy. Her advocacy extends to the fashion and beauty industries where she pushes for more inclusive standards for all.

Lashana Lynch

The ‘No Time to Die’ star has spoken about the importance of evolving iconic franchises to include more diverse perspectives and characters. She has addressed the backlash she faced for her role and the need for studios to support their diverse talent. Lynch emphasizes the value of having diverse crews who understand the specific needs of performers from different backgrounds. Her presence in major action films has challenged traditional notions of who can lead a global blockbuster.

Tati Gabrielle

Gabrielle has shared her experiences with the lack of knowledgeable hairstylists for her signature looks on the set of ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. She often had to assist or lead the styling process to ensure her hair was treated correctly and looked professional on camera. The actress has called for more training and the hiring of diverse professionals in the beauty departments of major networks. Her transparency highlights a common struggle for many actors of color in the industry today.

Logan Browning

The ‘Dear White People’ star has been active in discussing the importance of representation both on screen and behind the scenes. She has highlighted the need for more diverse directors and producers to bring a wider range of stories to life. Browning often uses her platform to advocate for social justice and the inclusion of marginalized voices in all areas of media. Her work reflects her commitment to using entertainment as a tool for meaningful and lasting social change.

Antonia Thomas

The British actress has spoken about the lack of diverse roles in the United Kingdom compared to the opportunities in the United States. She noted that performers of color often have to travel abroad to find substantial and varied work in the industry. Thomas has advocated for the British film and television industry to become more inclusive and representative of its actual population. Her comments point to the global nature of the struggle for diversity in the entertainment business.

Freida Pinto

Pinto has discussed the pigeonholing of South Asian actors in Hollywood and the struggle to find roles that are not defined by ethnicity. She has called for more diverse casting in mainstream films and the removal of cultural stereotypes. The actress has worked with international organizations to promote the empowerment of women and the importance of representation. Her career trajectory shows the impact of advocating for more complex and diverse characters in cinema.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Hayek has been a pioneer in speaking out against the lack of opportunities for Latinx actors and the prevalence of stereotypes in Hollywood. She has shared her experiences of being told she would never be a leading lady because of her accent and background. The actress has since produced her own content to create more space for diverse stories and talent to flourish. Her advocacy has paved the way for many other Latinx performers to find success in the modern industry.

Michelle Yeoh

The Academy Award winner has frequently addressed the lack of roles for older Asian women in the global film industry. She has spoken about the need for more diverse and complex characters that go beyond traditional tropes and archetypes. Yeoh has used her recent success to highlight the importance of representation and the wealth of talent within the Asian community. Her career longevity is a testament to the importance of fighting for meaningful and diverse storytelling at every stage.

Lucy Liu

Liu has spoken about the challenges she faced as one of the few prominent Asian American actresses early in her career. She has addressed the lack of diversity in casting and the tendency for the industry to limit performers to specific genres. The actress has also been a vocal advocate for more diverse representation in the directing and producing ranks. Her work has broken barriers and opened doors for many diverse performers who followed in her footsteps.

Constance Wu

The ‘Fresh Off the Boat’ actress has been an outspoken advocate for Asian American representation in the media. She has called out the industry for its history of whitewashing and the lack of leading roles for Asian performers. Wu has also discussed the pressure of being the face of a movement and the importance of having a diverse range of stories. Her advocacy helped spark the success of films that feature all Asian casts in leading roles.

Margaret Cho

Cho has used her comedy and acting career to highlight the lack of visibility for the Asian American and LGBTQ communities. She has spoken about the racism and homophobia she encountered on various sets and in the industry at large. The actress advocates for a more inclusive entertainment landscape where all people can see themselves reflected. Her work continues to challenge the status quo and push for greater diversity in all forms of media.

Sandra Mae Frank

As a prominent deaf actress Frank has advocated for the inclusion of disabled performers and the use of authentic casting. She has called out productions that use hearing actors to play deaf characters and emphasized the importance of accessibility on set. Frank has also pushed for more diverse representation within the deaf community itself across all media. Her work on shows like ‘New Amsterdam’ has brought more visibility to the specific challenges faced by disabled actors.

Lauren Ridloff

The ‘Eternals’ star has been a vocal advocate for the deaf community and the need for more accessibility in major film productions. She has spoken about the importance of having sign language interpreters on set and ensuring that the environment is fully inclusive. Ridloff has also highlighted the need for more diverse stories that feature disabled characters in meaningful leading roles. Her presence in a major superhero franchise has set a new standard for representation in the genre.

Millicent Simmonds

Simmonds has used her platform to advocate for more opportunities for deaf actors in both film and television. She has spoken about the need for productions to be more accommodating and to recognize the unique talents of disabled performers. The actress emphasizes that diversity should always include disability as a key component of representation. Her success in high profile films has demonstrated the power and importance of authentic and diverse casting.

Jamie Brewer

Known for her roles in ‘American Horror Story’ Brewer has been a pioneer for actors with Down syndrome. She has spoken about the importance of being cast for her talent rather than her disability and the need for more inclusive environments. Brewer has also advocated for more diverse representation on the fashion runway and in other areas of the media. Her career has broken down barriers and inspired many other performers from the disabled community to pursue their dreams.

Halle Bailey

The star of ‘The Little Mermaid’ has spoken about the importance of representation for young Black girls in classic fairy tales. She addressed the significant backlash she faced and the need for studios to stand by their diverse casting choices. Bailey emphasized the positive impact that seeing a diverse lead can have on a global audience. Her performance has become a landmark moment for diversity in major studio productions.

Rachel Zegler

Zegler has been vocal about the importance of Latinx representation in major musical films and franchises. She has addressed the challenges of being a person of color in the industry and the need for more inclusive casting practices. The actress has also spoken about the importance of staying true to ones heritage while pursuing a career in Hollywood. Her success in high profile roles has made her a prominent voice for the next generation of diverse talent.

Xochitl Gomez

The ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ actress has advocated for more representation of young Latina performers in the superhero genre. She has spoken about the importance of having characters that young people can identify with on a personal level. Gomez has also addressed the need for studios to provide support for diverse actors facing online harassment. Her presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has expanded the range of diverse voices in major franchises.

Dominique Jackson

As a star of the series ‘Pose’ Jackson has been a powerful advocate for the inclusion and protection of trans women of color. She has called out the industry for its historical lack of representation and the need for more authentic storytelling. Jackson emphasizes the importance of providing resources and a safe working environment for all marginalized performers. Her work has been instrumental in bringing trans stories to the forefront of mainstream television.

Indya Moore

Moore has used their platform to advocate for the rights and representation of nonbinary and trans performers of color. They have spoken about the lack of diversity in fashion and entertainment and the need for systemic change. Moore has also called out productions for failing to respect the identities and needs of their diverse cast members. Their advocacy continues to push the boundaries of what inclusion looks like in the modern entertainment industry.

Tell us which of these actresses you admire most for their advocacy in the comments.