The Boys has become quite a phenomena with a strong third season and even setting up a future spinoff with Gen V. Yet, the series’ strong themes have seemingly gone over the head of some watchers, as a new increase in misogynistic comments has surrounded the project, especially in regards to Erin Moriarty‘s Starlight. Especially in how reactions towards a fictional character are commonly thrown towards an actor playing a role.
In reaction to a post that highlighted this very issue, the actress took to her personal Instagram account to share how it has affected her and generally used the opportunity to speak out against the misogynistic comments that are being sent her way since the third season’s release.
I do feel silenced. I do feel dehumanized. I do feel paralyzed. I’ve put blood, sweat, and tears into this role (over & over & over again), I’ve grown UP in this character’s shoes (*emphasis on grown up – we change & evolve mentally AND physically). So with that I say: a) thank you to @butcherscanary b) this does break my heart – I’ve opened up a vein for this role and this kind of trolling is exactly what this role (Annie) would speak out against and c) everyone’s going through their own battle(s); let’s not add to that. I will never intentionally (and ESPECIALLY) publicly add to yours. This has only strengthened my empathy muscle and to anyone who comes at me: I see you, I don’t hate you, I only empathize and forgive.
Erin Moriarty
It’s great to see Moriarty speak out against the things that are being thrown at her, especially with how much support she receives from her co-stars. We’ve seen a lot of misogynistic and racist comments made towards popular franchises, especially the recent reactions to House of the Dragon, Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power, as well as any Marvel or Star Wars release.
There’s a general odd trend surrounding the series take on political and pop culture satire. While it mocks DC and Marvel, it also owes a lot of its storylines and concepts to those franchises. The existence of counterculture isn’t new and is a recurring element we’ve seen throughout the years; even with the original The Boys comic back in the day. Yet, it’s being taken to a different level with hard-R and violent action being “for adults” and making comparisons to other superhero media out there.
Source: Instagram
