Charisma Carpenter has described her recent social media post detailing abuse allegations against Joss Whedon as a “call to action.”
The Buffy The Vampire Slayer actress, who starred as Cordelia Chase on the fantasy series, came forward with a statement last month, accusing the show creator of “creating a hostile and toxic work environment.”
Recalling her experiences on set in a candid Instagram post, the 50-year-old alleged Whedon made “ongoing, passive-aggressive threats to fire” her throughout their time working together.
Writing an open letter on Hollywood Reporter to discuss her initial message, Charisma wrote: “I shared my experiences about my former boss, Joss Whedon, so that we may identify a very real problem that is still happening 20 years later. My open letter is not just trauma unpacking or dumping. It’s a wake-up call. And a call to action. It was written in a concerted effort to foster change.”
“As a result of sharing my personal experience, others have come forward to confide in me and reveal their own experiences with abuse. So it is my aim to help educate anyone reading this on how to be an ally and support a person who has survived trauma in its many incarnations.”
“While I am not a licensed therapist, I’ve gone through two decades of therapy for my PTSD and, in a genuine desire to overcome my pain, I’ve learned so much.”
In the open letter, she offered suggestions to “provide more empathy for victims of abuse,” while also “encouraging” others with similar experiences to speak up ‘until there’s no longer a need for anyone to have to come forward at all. These include believing victims when they share their own ordeals, and not playing ‘devil’s advocate’ for their abusers.”
Carpenter’s original statement about Whedon came nearly two months after Ray Fisher publicly accused Whedon (along with producers Geoff Johns and Jon Berg) of misconduct on the Justice League set. The actress credited Fisher for helping her come forward with her own story.
Sarah Michelle Gellar, David Boreanaz, Anthony Stewart Head, Eliza Dushku and more spoke out about Carpenters allegations.
“I am here for you to listen and support you. Proud of your strength,” Boreanaz tweeted, with Carpenter acknowledging his support in front and behind the scenes.
“I know you’re there for me, David. I appreciate all you’ve done to demonstrate that support privately as well. Especially since Wednesday. -Thank you so much,” she responded.
