Julie Hesmondhalgh on Desire and Media Portrayals

Julie Hesmondhalgh, known for her roles in "The Traitors" and "Coronation Street," has spoken out about the societal pressures on women concerning attractiveness and desirability. In a recent interview, the 56-year-old actress discussed her personal journey in challenging the notion that women must conform to certain beauty standards to be considered sexually attractive.

Hesmondhalgh recalled a past role as a rape survivor in "Broadchurch," where her character was described as an "ordinary-looking middle-aged woman." The dialogue, which questioned why such a character would be targeted, highlighted to Hesmondhalgh the internalized misogyny she had absorbed. "Part of me still believed rape is an act of desire when it’s not," she stated. "It’s an act of violence and it’s about power. But yes, I had to fight the idea that I could not be desirable."

Referencing her "The Traitors" co-star Maya Jama, Hesmondhalgh emphasized that women understand that attractiveness is not limited to conventional beauty ideals. "I just have to remember that women understand that you can be sexually attractive without looking like Maya Jama," she said. This sentiment extends to her professional life, as she admitted to feeling apprehension when presented with scripts that involve flirtatious scenes, questioning whether her co-stars would find her attractive.

During her appearance on "The Traitors," Hesmondhalgh endeared herself to viewers with her genuine enthusiasm and starstruck interactions with fellow contestants, including singers James Blunt and actors Myha'la and Richard E. Grant. Despite her warm reception from fans, who praised her authentic reactions, she was ultimately banished from the castle, identified as a Traitor by her fellow players.

Reflecting on her departure, Hesmondhalgh expressed her enjoyment of the experience, acknowledging that her exit might suggest a lack of acting prowess, but maintained her innocence as a Faithful. The show's host, Claudia Winkleman, commented that the Faithfuls had inadvertently aided the Traitors by banishing an innocent player.