Olivia Wilde’s groundbreaking roles in shows like ‘House’ and ‘The O.C.’ sparked controversy and even death threats due to their portrayal of queer characters and interracial relationships. Despite the backlash, Wilde embraced the risk and controversy, praising filmmakers who push boundaries.
Olivia Wilde’s Groundbreaking Roles: From ‘House’ to ‘The O.C.’
Olivia Wilde played Doctor Remy ‘Thirteen’ Hadley, a bisexual character, on the medical drama ‘House’ from 2007 to 2012. She also portrayed queer bartender Alex Kelly on ‘The O.C.’, dating characters played by Adam Brody and Mischa Barton. These roles were considered groundbreaking at the time for their representation of LGBTQ+ characters on network television.
The Controversial Representation That Sparked Outrage
Wilde’s character on ‘House’ was involved in an interracial relationship, which led to a shocking reception. According to the actress, she received ‘insane death threats constantly coming into the studios’, prompting increased security measures. The portrayal of a same-sex relationship on a network show was also seen as controversial and groundbreaking at the time.
Why Olivia Wilde Embraced Risky Roles: ‘I’d Rather Be Controversial Than Boring’
Despite the backlash, Wilde embraced the risk and controversy surrounding her roles. She stated, ‘I naturally gravitated towards roles that had a little bit of risk involved,’ and added, ‘I’d rather be controversial than boring.’ Wilde valued the opportunity to take on challenging and boundary-pushing roles over widespread acceptance or fame.
Olivia Wilde’s Surprising Revelation About Her Queer Roles
Looking back, Wilde expressed surprise at the groundbreaking nature of her queer roles, saying, ‘Seeing what’s on television now, if you watch ‘Euphoria,’ the fact that that my character was shocking and groundbreaking then, it’s like, no, it’s nothing.’ She acknowledged how representation has evolved and become more mainstream in recent years.
The Unexpected Reception That Shocked Olivia Wilde
Wilde admitted she ‘never thought it should have made headlines that we had a same-sex relationship on a network show,’ highlighting how the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters was still relatively rare and controversial at the time, despite her expectations.
Olivia Wilde’s Praise for Gregg Araki: ‘He’s a Freak in the Best Possible Way’
Wilde expressed admiration for filmmaker Gregg Araki, known for his boundary-pushing work, calling him ‘a freak in the best possible way.’ She praised his authenticity and commitment to filmmaking ‘for all the right reasons,’ stating, ‘I’m so inspired by him.’
The Groundbreaking Moment That Seems Tame Today: Olivia Wilde’s Queer Roles
While Wilde’s queer roles were considered shocking and groundbreaking at the time, she acknowledged that their impact has diminished in the context of today’s increased representation. What was once controversial is now more widely accepted and celebrated in mainstream media.
Olivia Wilde’s Fearless Approach to Acting: Embracing Controversy and Risk
Throughout her career, Olivia Wilde has demonstrated a fearless approach to acting, embracing controversial and risky roles that challenge societal norms and push boundaries. Her willingness to take on these roles, despite potential backlash, has contributed to the evolution of representation and acceptance in the entertainment industry.
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