Kirsten Dunst: Hollywood is now 'much safer' due to #MeToo movement, says 'everyone is vigilant'

Kirsten Dunst expressed optimism that the entertainment industry has become significantly safer, crediting the #MeToo movement with fostering greater vigilance against predatory behavior. The actress emphasized that misconduct is increasingly being noticed and addressed.

A lot of people have been held accountable. Its clear that individuals can no longer act with impunity as they once did, Dunst shared during an interview at the Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia.

When asked whether male actors are more conscious of #MeToo, Dunst replied that awareness has grown across the board. Everyone is watching now, making sure harmful behavior doesnt go unchecked. It creates a much safer environment for everyone, she said.

Reflecting on her own upbringing in Hollywood, Dunst expressed gratitude for her supportive family. I was fortunate to have a strong family and a protective mother. I never experienced negative situations like that, she noted.

She fondly remembered her early acting experiences. While working on Interview with the Vampire alongside Tom Cruise, she recalled feeling treated like royalty on set. I even got a beautiful Christmas tree in my dressing room from Tom Cruise, she said.

Dunst also described a sense of security while filming Lars von Triers Melancholia. The environment was calm and nurturing, with a team of women supporting the set. All the actors were wonderful, and I felt completely safe, she shared. She added that the experience was one of the most liberating moments in her career.

The #MeToo movement, founded by Tarana Burke in 2006 to support survivors of sexual assault, gained worldwide recognition after Alyssa Milano popularized the hashtag in 2017. It has played a crucial role in bringing accountability to powerful figures in Hollywood.

Author: Olivia Parker