Cindy Crawford claims Oprah treated her poorly in their initial 1986 interview.
Model Cindy Crawford Opens Up About Feeling Like ”Chattel” During Early Career
In a recent interview with Oprah, supermodel Cindy Crawford revealed that she once felt like “chattel” during her early days in the modeling industry.
The 57-year-old celebrity shared this revelation on the new AppleTV+ docuseries titled “The Super Models,” which also delves into the lives and careers of Crawford’s contemporaries, Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, and Christy Turlington.
A sneak peek from the latest episode shows Oprah introducing Crawford as her guest during a 1986 episode of her talk show, as reported by The Daily Mail. The young model appeared alongside renowned Elite Modeling Agency representative John Casablancas.
“Did she always have this body? Stand up just a moment, now this is what I call a body,” Oprah says in the clip.
Crawford complies with Oprah’s request and stands with a smile. Reflecting on the incident in the present day, the model expresses her feelings about it.
“I was like the chattel or a child, be seen and not heard,” Crawford says. “When you look at it through today’s eyes, Oprah’s like, ‘Stand up and show me your body. Show us why you’re worthy of being here.'”
Crawford also adds, “In the moment, I didn’t recognize it, and watching it back, I was like, ’Oh my gosh, that was so not okay really.’ Especially from Oprah!”
The series also explores Crawford’s early days in modeling, including her father’s initial disbelief in it being a legitimate career.
“I never even thought about modeling,” Crawford reveals. “I didn’t even know it was a real job. I didn’t know how I would get from DeKalb, Illinois, to a magazine. My dad really didn’t understand that modeling was a real career. He thought modeling was like another name for prostitution. So they came with me to my very first modeling appointment.”
According to a press release for “The Super Models,” the series takes viewers back to the 1980s when these four influential women from different parts of the world came together in New York, creating a powerful force that transcended the industry itself.
How has the modeling industry evolved in recent years to create a safer and more supportive environment for models
E.com/topic/entertainment” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>episode of “The Super Models” showcases Crawford discussing her early experiences in the modeling industry. She reveals how she often felt treated as mere property, or “chattel,” rather than being seen as an individual with her own thoughts, feelings, and desires.
During the interview, Crawford explains that the modeling industry in the 1980s and 1990s lacked the protections and regulations that exist today. Models did not have a strong voice or agency in their careers, often at the mercy of powerful agents, photographers, and designers.
Crawford opens up about instances where she was asked to pose nude or wear revealing outfits against her wishes. She recalls being pressured into doing things she was uncomfortable with, but feeling powerless to say no for fear of losing opportunities or damaging her reputation.
These revelations shed light on the darker side of the glitz and glamour associated with the modeling industry. While models are often idolized and put on a pedestal, behind the scenes, they face numerous challenges and compromises.
The experiences shared by Crawford align with the #MeToo movement, which has led to increased awareness of the exploitation and mistreatment of women in various industries. Models, like many other women in the entertainment industry, have had to navigate a system that objectifies and devalues them.
Fortunately, progress has been made in recent years. The modeling industry has become more inclusive, diverse, and receptive to the voices and concerns of models. Many companies and agencies have implemented policies to protect the well-being and dignity of their models, including age restrictions, codes of conduct, and the presence of chaperones during photoshoots.
Crawford’s interview serves as a reminder that even the most successful and iconic figures can have difficult and challenging beginnings. It underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to create a safer and more supportive environment for aspiring models.
As the modeling industry evolves, it is crucial to continue to address the issues that models face, such as exploitation, discrimination, and lack of agency. By raising awareness and implementing meaningful change, we can ensure that the modeling industry becomes a place where talent and creativity can flourish without sacrificing personal dignity and autonomy.
Crawford’s willingness to share her experiences and vulnerabilities is commendable. Her openness inspires others to speak up about their own experiences and contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the treatment of women in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, Cindy Crawford’s revelation about feeling like “chattel” in her early career serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by models in the industry. Her interview highlights the importance of creating a safer and more supportive environment for models, where their voices and well-being are valued and protected. It is an opportunity for the industry to reflect on its past practices and continue to strive for progress and positive change.
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