Comments on: American Horror Story: Coven – Race & Gender

By: Tchalla

Tchalla — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 11:41:00 +0000

I dont really think she has a choice she gets roles like many actors because of her looks. I would rather act in movies than be a receptionist which was her previous job. I doubt very seriously that she has seen a lot of love from Black people or people in general so she is trying to use what she got to get what she want like the rest of us.The writers are all to blame because they would just find another fat Black chick out of the millions out there.

By: TiffJ

TiffJ — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 23:31:00 +0000

Good point. But I imagine, that can present a conundrum for a (Black) actress who wants to stop being pigeonholed and typecast in stereotypical roles, but who also wants to work and have some visibility and longevity in the business. She said she wants to stop playing to type, let’s see if she gets more diverse opportunities.

One binary I’ve noted is, while White actresses, like Melissa McCarthy and Rebel Wilson, get commentary about their weight and are, subject to Hollywood’s ridicule of women who don’t fit their standard, they’re still admired and are allowed to be sexy, campy, and confident; while Gabby is often dehumanized on-screen and in the Hollywood sphere. (Remember she said how Joan Cusack told her to quit?)

But alas, how hard Gabourey bucks against playing the Sassy Mammy, remains to be seen. Particularly if she wants to keep getting roles.

By: Val

Val — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 06:55:00 +0000

At a certain point Gabby has to be responsible for the roles she takes. If she continues to accept these kinds of roles then the writers are only half to blame.