Comedian Leanne Morgan has voiced criticism of Hollywood, asserting that the industry operates within a "bubble" and often misjudges what audiences, particularly those in the central United States and Christian demographics, want to consume. Morgan, who is starring in the Netflix show "Leanne," where she plays a Southern mother, shared her perspective during a recent appearance on "The Women of Joy Show" podcast.
Morgan recounted an experience while filming a movie with Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell, where her character, a Southern mother of four, was initially scripted to curse in front of her children. Morgan stated that she pushed back on the scene, informing the director that such language was not characteristic of a Southern mother in that context. The director reportedly allowed Morgan to make the change, trusting her insight.
"I think they think in their minds, 'Oh, everybody's talking like this, everybody wants this,' but I don't think the majority of people do," Morgan said. "Or not in the south, especially when you're portraying southern characters. Or anywhere really."
Morgan also touched on her personal faith, noting that her journey with Christianity began at age 12 when her parents sought marital counseling at church. She explained that while she respects others' choices, she personally avoids using curse words, as they were not used in her upbringing.
During her time filming her Netflix show in Los Angeles, Morgan described feeling a "darkness" and relied on her faith, engaging in Bible studies and attending church. She emphasized the importance of her spiritual beliefs in navigating the pressures of her career.
Morgan's career began in stand-up comedy, leading to a Netflix special in 2023 and a subsequent arena tour. She is also slated to make her feature film debut in 2025 in "You're Cordially Invited."