What is casting couch?

The term "casting couch" refers to a situation in the entertainment industry, particularly in Hollywood, where individuals in positions of power, such as producers or directors, exploit their authority to demand or solicit sexual favors from aspiring actors or actresses in exchange for career advancement or roles in productions. This phenomenon has been a longstanding, albeit largely hidden, issue in the industry and has been the subject of significant controversy and discussion.

The casting couch practice has been criticized for promoting a toxic and abusive work environment, perpetuating gender inequality, and exploiting vulnerable individuals. It came into the spotlight with the rise of the #MeToo movement, which began in late 2017, as many individuals—both women and men—began to speak out about the pervasive sexual harassment and assault they faced in the industry. High-profile cases, such as the allegations against producer Harvey Weinstein, brought widespread attention to the culture of silence and complicity that allowed such practices to persist.

Efforts to address this issue have included implementing stricter industry guidelines, encouraging transparent and fair casting processes, and establishing channels through which victims can safely report harassment or abuse. Despite these efforts, the issue highlights ongoing challenges related to power dynamics and the need for systemic change in many industries.