Jessica Chastain hits out at ‘strong woman’ character label

Actress Jessica Chastain has hit out at people who describe her film roles as “strong women” because it implies that women are not strong generally.

She pointed out that male actors are rarely referred to as playing “strong male” characters as she discussed gender stereotypes with her Twitter followers.

The 40-year-old posted on Twitter: “Every time someone writes that I play ‘strong women’ what they’re implying is that most women aren’t. How about I just play well written parts?”

She followed it with: “You never read that an actor is known for playing ‘strong male’ characters because its assumed all men are.”

Chastain warned that the labels can also negatively discriminate against men.

Asked by one follower if she was suggesting men do not have to fight “heteronormative-stud” stereotypes, she said: “Of course they do. Men should be allowed to be seen as sensitive and tender. I can address female roles without ignoring gender stereotypes.”

Responding to a suggestion that the “strong man” stereotype can be linked to male suicide levels, she said: “True. Suicide in men is too high. We need to change how we expect both genders to be.”

Chastain recently made headlines when she thanked her The Disappearance Of Eleanor Rigby co-star Jess Weixler for sharing her story about being allegedly propositioned by disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein over “several years”.