Leslie Jones Demands Women Be Respected ‘as F—ing Humans’

As a seasoned movie reviewer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that Leslie Jones is truly a force to be reckoned with. Her wit, charisma, and unapologetic humor are not only entertaining but also empowering. In her upcoming role as host at the EbMaster’s Power of Women gala, she promises to bring laughter, ease, and a touch of rebellion to the event – a perfect antidote for any nervousness or stiffness that might be present in the room.

Leslie Jones has been announced as the host for EbMaster’s Power of Women gala happening on October 24th. In anticipation of the refined audience, she jokes, “I need to check the crowd first. I think these are going to be sophisticated ladies, so I’ll have to watch my language initially,” laughs the Emmy-nominated performer and humorist, who is famous for occasionally using colorful language in her performances.

The collaboration with Lifetime will celebrate Amy Adams, Bela Bajaria, Carol Burnett, and Zoe Saldaña, all prominent women in the entertainment sector, by spotlighting them in an event that recognizes their achievements, as they are featured in the Women’s Impact Report.

As a comedian that night, my goal was all about spreading a touch of happiness and relaxation throughout the room. With everyone dolled up and perhaps feeling a tad anxious, I aim to encourage them to simply enjoy this moment, to embrace it because it’s fun! We’re all looking fabulous, so let’s make the entire ceremony feel lighthearted and enjoyable.

Jones has been performing standup comedy since 1987, which means she’s not easily intimidated by most performances. “You need to be prepared for anything,” she explains. “You should have both clean and dirty material at your disposal. You should have a wide range of material. If you aim to be a versatile entertainer, particularly as a comedian, then you’re already equipped.

Despite the humor, she genuinely values the event’s topic and its significance. “The immense influence women have had on the world – remember, we make up half the population,” she initiates. “We offer talent, passion, dedication, creativity, thoughts, fears… We contribute just as much as men do. Therefore, it’s disheartening when we are not granted equal treatment. Can you understand what I mean? … I aspire for society to recognize and respect us as fellow human beings.

Reflecting on my days shooting “Ghostbusters” in 2016, I recall standing shoulder to shoulder with Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, and Chris Hemsworth. What struck me most was watching McCarthy take charge, glancing at the monitor and assertively yet courteously addressing director Paul Feig about an angle she wasn’t fond of. She made certain that her on-screen image was being treated with respect, and it left a lasting impression on me. Now, whenever I find myself in front of the camera, I echo her actions, asking things like, “Is there enough light over here? Can you see the rich tones of my skin?” This self-advocacy is something I admired then, and it’s become my own practice now.

“So,” Jones says, “I still feel like the industry has a lot of catching up to do.”

Regarding the event, Michelle Sobrino-Stearns, CEO and group publisher of EbMaster, expresses that “The Power of Women franchise remains one of our most eagerly awaited annual events. It’s an honor for us to recognize exceptional women who persist in breaking down barriers and driving the industry forward. We are thankful for our fantastic partners at Lifetime for their enduring backing.

2024-10-23 21:16

Leslie Jones Demands Women Be Respected ‘as F—ing Humans’

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