Sally Field's Stand Against Injustice on the Set of Steel Magnolias: A Lesson in Solidarity and Advocacy

News - 15 February 2024
During the filming of Steel Magnolias, Sally Field took on a motherly role towards Julia Roberts. The popular movie, released in 1989, garnered a lot of attention for its cast and crew. However, working with the late director Herb Ross was not without its challenges.

In a recent interview with Vulture, Sally Field discussed her experiences on set and the different ways in which Ross interacted with the women involved in the production.nnAccording to Field, Ross had a varied approach when it came to directing the actresses. While she felt that she had the freedom to express herself, Ross was critical of Julia Roberts.

Field described Ross as a "real bastard" and recalled how the other women on set, including Dolly Parton, stood up for Roberts, who was the youngest and least experienced member of the cast. Field claimed that Ross would pick on Roberts unfairly, leading the other women to come to her defense. Parton even retaliated with vulgar humor to show her support for Roberts.

nnField admitted that while she could be critical herself, she would not stand for unjustified bullying. She described herself as a fighter despite her small stature and stressed the importance of standing up for what is right. In a video interview with Variety, Field elaborated on her experiences working with Ross and the importance of advocating for others in the industry.

nnThe dynamics on the set of Steel Magnolias highlighted the challenges and power dynamics that can exist in the film industry. Field's advocacy for Roberts and her willingness to confront Ross's behavior demonstrate the importance of solidarity among women in Hollywood. The #MeToo movement has brought to light the prevalence of harassment and discrimination in the entertainment industry, prompting a shift towards greater accountability and support for victims.

nnIn the current climate of increased awareness and activism, it is crucial for individuals like Field to speak out against injustice and stand up for those who are vulnerable. The film industry has a long history of exploitation and mistreatment, particularly towards women and minorities. By using her platform to advocate for change, Field is setting an example for others in the industry to follow.

nnSteel Magnolias remains a beloved classic, but behind the scenes, there were challenges and conflicts that the cast had to navigate. Field's maternal instinct towards Roberts and her refusal to tolerate mistreatment from Ross demonstrate her strength and integrity. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, it is essential for individuals to prioritize respect, equality, and justice for all those involved in the filmmaking process.

nnIn conclusion, Sally Field's experiences on the set of Steel Magnolias shed light on the importance of solidarity and advocacy in the film industry. By standing up for Julia Roberts and confronting Herb Ross's behavior, Field exemplified the power of speaking out against injustice. As the #MeToo movement continues to push for change and accountability in Hollywood, individuals like Field serve as role models for creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all.