Johnny Depp Apologizes for Insensitive Remark
In an interview with Vanity Fair that was released yesterday, Johnny Depp made a remark that, unsurprisingly, drew immediate outrage. He explained (in a fumbling manner) that having his photo taken is like being raped: “Well, you just feel like you’re being raped somehow. Raped…It feels like a kind of weird — just weird, man.”
Hm. Well, aside from the highly articulate expression, there seems to be a glaring eggageration here. At least, that’s what the Rape Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) was quick to point out in a response to the statement: “While photos may feel at times intrusive, being photographed in no way compares to rape,” the organization insisted, coaxing an eloquent apology from Depp.
“I am truly sorry for offending anyone in any way…I understand there is no comparison and I am very regretful. In an effort to correct my lack of judgment, please accept my heartfelt apology” Depp stated. RAINN accepted his apology, adding that they would be happy to work with Depp “to provide hope to victims of rape and make sure they get the help they deserve.”
It’s hard to imagine being followed by cameras and asked to pose for an audience so often, and Depp isn’t the first star to liken this “exposure” to the trauma of physical violation. In fact, Kristen Stewart said something similar in an interview last year. Are these stars sensationalizing their feelings for the cameras, or is this simply an example of the ignorance that comes with a lofty existance?
