
Welcome to my blog! Not written one before. Wanted to, but not confident anyone would be interested in my ramblings. Why should anyone be interested in what’s important to me, what I care about? But I do love a challenge and 2025 is a new year, so perhaps you’ll join me.
I’d like that.
Here we go:-
On Monday 13th January Facebook sent me a memory with the video clip below which had been posted to the Equity Women’s Committee page 7 years ago. The same day Bristol activist Anthony Gerard Cooke sent a post to the Committee’s page about Sarah Putt, Chair of BAFTA who, commenting on the low representation of women nominees in the most prestigious categories for the 2025 BAFTA awards, said there is still a “long way to go” to achieve gender parity in the film and television industry.
Listening again to what I said on the BBC, 7yrs ago, it got me thinking. Have things really changed that much? Have we had the proper conversation about women being more than just a pretty face, that they have gravitas and ability? How does one get the industry to listen? Is it that they still believe their lack of confidence in women and their stories is justified, or are they worried by the competition?
Sarah Putt, Chair of BAFTA, and many others like her have continued to voice their frustration, as do I at every opportunity I get. And she is a talent scout and producer, not a mere thespian like me.
What do you think?
I really enjoyed reading your blog Jean! Your honesty about stepping into blogging for the first time is so relatable, and it immediately draws the reader in. The way you connect past reflections with current industry challenges makes for a compelling and thought-provoking read. Your questions about gender parity in film and television are powerful, and they highlight how much work still needs to be done. It’s great to see someone using their voice to keep the conversation going. Looking forward to more of your insights!
Jean, I am in full support of your post and truly believe that things need to change and the powers that be need to actually listen. This is the 21st Century and not Victorian England.
You are a beacon of strength in our industry
That’s great, I’ll definitely be following - I have thoughts on this issue myself (nsybe gir another day or a private conversation)
Can’t wait until the next instalment 😃
Very interesting Jean
I see more stories about women now, but still think there is a long way to go. Well done Jean.