Despite its reputation as a liberal and progressive industry, Eva Longoria believes that Hollywood is actually lagging behind in terms of gender and racial equity, citing a decline in female directors and Latina representation on camera.
Eva Longoria is not holding back her criticism of Hollywood's claims of progressiveness, pointing to the glaring disparities in representation and opportunities for women and people of color. In a recent interview with Grazia magazine, the former "Desperate Housewives" star shared her frustration with the industry's persistent lack of equity.
"People think Hollywood is a liberal, progressive industry, but it’s not," Longoria said. "It would be great to have gender equity in all positions, we just don’t. We have fewer female directors and fewer Latinos in front of the camera than we did a couple of years ago. So, we’re actually going in the wrong direction, even though the perception is that we’re doing so great."
Eva Longoria Slams Hollywood's Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color
Longoria's comments come at a time when the entertainment industry has been facing increased scrutiny over its lack of diversity and inclusion. Despite Hollywood's efforts to address systemic racism and gender inequality, many argue that meaningful change is still lacking.
"Women are still not getting the same opportunities as our male counterparts," Longoria emphasized. "What we do [in the industry] matters, it can change culture and, when you change culture, you can change policy, perception. You can change a lot of things with storytelling."
Eva Longoria Slams Hollywood's Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color
Longoria, who has transitioned from acting to producing in recent years, is committed to using her platform to amplify diverse voices and challenge industry norms. Through her newly founded Hyphenate Media Group, she aims to produce stories that celebrate the Latine community and challenge stereotypes.
"I like producing with purpose," Longoria explained. "I want to tell stories for my Latine community. We have a lot of heroes, things to say, an amazing talent pool of storytellers. It’s refreshing and innovative — in an industry that keeps going to the same writers and creators for the same stories — to have a different perspective and point of view, because it changes everything, makes it more interesting, more relevant."
Eva Longoria Slams Hollywood's Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color
Longoria's latest project, the six-part series "Land of Women," will see her return to acting while also showcasing the work of underrepresented creators. The series, which is set in Spain's wine country, is a testament to Longoria's commitment to telling authentic and inclusive stories.
"I wanted to work in Spain and asked [creator Roman Campos] to write me a show set in wine country," Longoria said. "I told him a wish list of what I was looking for in a show and he came up with ‘Land Of Women.’ Apple bought it straight away and we went into production."
Eva Longoria Slams Hollywood's Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color
Longoria's advocacy for women and Latinos extends beyond her work on screen. As a vocal advocate for social justice, she believes that entertainment has the power to drive positive change.
"I felt the weight of my community, I felt the weight of every female director because we don’t get a lot of bites at the apple," Longoria said while promoting "Flamin’ Hot" at Cannes in 2023.
"We can’t get a movie every 20 years," she continued. "So the problem is if this movie fails, people go, ‘Oh, Latino stories don’t work.’ ‘Oh, female directors really don’t cut it.’"
Despite the challenges, Longoria remains determined to push for progress and equity in Hollywood. Through her work as a producer, director, and advocate, she is using her voice to empower others and create a more inclusive and representative industry.
"The myth that Hollywood is so progressive is a myth when you look at the data," Longoria concluded. "I mean, yes, we had some wins but like no, we still have so much more to go."
