The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey has voiced support for awards shows keeping separate categories for male and female performers. The British star, who identifies as non-binary and asks to be referred to with they/them pronouns, said it was important that "recognition for women in the industry is preserved". "But then, where do non-binary or gender non-conforming people fit into that? I don't know," Ramsey added. Ramsey has been nominated for best actress at the Baftas and Emmys. Other ceremonies such the MTV and Brit Awards have switched to all-encompassing gender-neutral prizes as the entertainment industry grapples with how non-binary actors should be treated by awards shows. Organisers of the Oscars said last year they were "exploring" the idea of merging the best actor and actress categories. Ramseytold Louis Theroux's podcast:"If people call me an actress, I have a guttural 'ugh, that's not quite right' instinct to it. "But I just don't take it too seriously. It doesn't feel like an attack on my identity. It's just a funny thing that doesn't really fit." Ramsey said they "didn't find it insulting" to be nominated for best actress at the Emmys. Theroux suggested that having a single category would mean "basically a lot of women wouldn't get nominated" - as happened when the Brits scrapped their best male and female categories in favour of a best artist award, andno women were nominated in 2023. Ramsey responded: "I think it's so important that that's preserved - that the recognition for women in this industry is preserved. "I think the gendered categories conversation's a really interesting one and I don't have the answer. I wish that there was something that was an easy way around it. "I think that it is really important that we have a female category and a male category - but then, where do non-binary and gender con-conforming people fit into that? I don't know. "I've literally sat and tried to think my way to the answer, and haven't got there. "You could do it for the character portrayed - like, best performance in a female character. But then, what about when there are non-binary characters on screen? Which is few and far between at the moment. But where does a non-binary person playing a non-binary character fit in? I don't know. It's really complicated." There has also been a move towards referring to all performers as actors rather than using the term actress, but Ramsey said many people prefer to be called an actress "and are really comfortable in that". "I've always just called myself an actor, but I don't think that those words [like actress] have to be taken away." The 21-year-old said they didn't think about the use of pronouns until The Last of Us started in 2023, "and it was a question that I had and suddenly I had to choose". "I was so stressed out about it because I didn't know, and I didn't really care." Ramsey said they rejected the term non-binary "for so long" because they didn't want to be seen as being "trendy". "It was just something that had been very obvious since I was young. I'd always call myself a tomboy, but it wasn't that I was like a boyish girl. I was always a bit of an inbetween, leaning more to the boy's side to be honest. "I feel like I grew up more as a little boy than I did a little girl. I always felt more masculine or... yeah, more on that side of the spectrum, I guess." The question of how to categorise awards has been a long-running debate in the entertainment industry. Currently, most awards shows invite actors to submit themselves for the category they feel comfortable in. In 2022, The Crown's Emma Corrin, who identifies as non-binary,told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "I don't think the categories are inclusive enough at the moment. It's about everyone being able to feel acknowledged and represented." In 2023, Yellowjackets star Liv Hewson, also non-binary, didn't enter the Emmys,saying: "There's not a place for me in the acting categories. It would be inaccurate for me to submit myself as an actress. It neither makes sense for me to be lumped in with the boys." Others worry that gender-neutral categories would lead to women being underrepresented. After having all-male nominees for best artist in 2023, the Brits expanded the prize's shortlist from five to 10 acts. Trans actors are not affected by the issue, with Elliot Page being eligible for best actor and Karla Sofía Gascón for best actress.
Bella Ramsey backs keeping separate best actor and actress awards categories
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Bella Ramsey Advocates for Separate Awards Categories for Male and Female Performers"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Bella Ramsey, the star of 'The Last of Us', has expressed her support for maintaining separate awards categories for male and female performers, emphasizing the significance of preserving recognition for women in the entertainment industry. Identifying as non-binary and preferring they/them pronouns, Ramsey shared her concerns about the complexities surrounding gender categories in awards shows. While she appreciates the value of female recognition, she also acknowledges that the current system does not adequately accommodate non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals. This sentiment echoes the ongoing debate within the industry, as some organizations, including the Oscars, have considered merging best actor and actress categories. Ramsey pointed out the potential risks of such changes, noting that they could lead to fewer nominations for women, as evidenced by the all-male nominee list at the 2023 Brit Awards after the elimination of gendered categories.
Ramsey's reflections extend to her personal experiences with gender identity and how it relates to her career. She revealed that while she does not find the label 'actress' inherently offensive, she prefers to be referred to as an actor. The conversation around gendered awards is not just about titles but also about representation and inclusivity, particularly for non-binary performers. Ramsey highlighted that the existing categories often fail to represent the diversity of identities in the acting community. She articulated her struggle with defining her identity, recalling that she had long rejected the term non-binary out of concern for being perceived as trendy. Ramsey's insights contribute to a broader dialogue about inclusivity in the entertainment industry, where many performers are advocating for a system that acknowledges all identities while ensuring that women and underrepresented groups still receive recognition. The complexities of these discussions reflect the evolving nature of gender identity and representation in the arts, and they underscore the need for thoughtful solutions that honor all performers equally.
TruthLens AI Analysis
Bella Ramsey's comments regarding the separation of awards categories reflect an ongoing debate within the entertainment industry about gender representation and inclusivity. By advocating for the preservation of distinct categories for male and female performers, Ramsey highlights the importance of recognizing the contributions of women in a historically male-dominated field. However, their identification as non-binary complicates the discussion, raising questions about how non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals should be acknowledged in awards ceremonies.
Industry Dynamics and Gender Recognition
Ramsey’s perspective sheds light on the tensions between traditional gender categories and the evolving understanding of gender identity. They express a desire for female representation while also acknowledging the challenges faced by non-binary individuals. This duality illustrates the complexity of gender issues in the entertainment industry, where awards shows are grappling with how to adapt to changing societal norms. The criticism of gender-neutral categories, as seen in other awards like the Brit Awards, suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach may inadvertently marginalize women, which Ramsey recognizes and seeks to address.
Public Sentiment and Social Impact
The article serves to galvanize discussions around gender representation in awards shows, potentially influencing public opinion and policy regarding how recognition is awarded in the industry. By voicing their support for maintaining separate categories, Ramsey might be appealing to audiences who feel that women's contributions should not be overshadowed by a singular category that could dilute recognition. This aligns with broader movements advocating for gender equality and representation across various sectors.
Comparative Analysis with Other News
When placed alongside other discussions in media about gender identity and representation, this article fits into a larger narrative about inclusivity in society. Other news outlets have also covered similar topics, reflecting a growing awareness and sensitivity toward gender issues. This interconnectedness reveals a societal shift towards more inclusive practices, though challenges remain in effectively implementing these changes.
Potential Effects on Society and the Industry
The implications of this debate extend beyond awards shows, as they may influence societal attitudes towards gender identity in various domains, including workplaces and schools. As the entertainment industry often serves as a cultural touchstone, shifts in how awards are structured could inspire broader changes in how gender is understood and celebrated in other fields.
Support from Specific Communities
Ramsey's statements are likely to resonate with LGBTQ+ communities, particularly those advocating for non-binary recognition. By addressing the nuances of gender identity, the article aims to engage audiences who seek representation and acknowledgment in mainstream media.
Market and Economic Influence
While this news may not directly impact stock markets or specific companies, it signals changing consumer preferences that could affect the entertainment industry. As audiences become increasingly attuned to issues of representation, companies that prioritize inclusivity may see a competitive advantage.
Geopolitical Context
The ongoing discussions about gender representation are relevant to broader societal dialogues around equality and rights, which can influence political landscapes. As movements for gender equality gain traction, they may contribute to shifts in public policy and social norms globally.
Involvement of AI in News Creation
It is possible that AI tools were utilized in crafting this article, particularly in analyzing public sentiment or generating insights on trends in gender representation. However, there is no clear evidence within the text to suggest AI has biased the narrative significantly. The article primarily reflects Ramsey’s views, framed in a manner that encourages discussion rather than manipulation.
The overall reliability of the article is supported by its basis in Ramsey's firsthand accounts and perspectives, although it is important to recognize that it represents a singular viewpoint within a broader discourse on gender and representation.