#MeToo: Emma Thompson explains why she left film by John Lasseter

When the British actress Emma Thompson left the production of the animated film "Luck" a month ago, it was quiet at first and became known only through media reports. Now the two-time Oscar winner has spoken in a public letter to speak for themselves. In the letter addressed to the producer Skydance, she explains the reasons for her decision. The letter published, among others, the "Guardian" and the "Los Angeles Times".

It was already known that Thompson was dissatisfied with the arrival of former Pixar boss John Lasseter in January as the new head of Skydance Animation. However, in her letter she goes into detail about why:

"It's very strange to me that you and your company are considering engaging someone with Mr. Lasseter's pattern of misconduct," writes Thompson. "If a man has inappropriately touched women for decades, why would a woman want to work for him?"

What was alleged

Lasseter directed several well-known animated films by Pixar, including "Toy Story" and "Cars." He also produced every Pixar movie since "Monster AG" in 2001, including "Finding Nemo". For his work Lasseter was twice awarded the Oscar. At the end of 2017, he announced that he would take a six-month break for unspecified "missteps". His final exit from Disney became known in June 2018.

Earlier, the Hollywood Reporter quoted a longtime Pixar employee as saying that Lasseter had been known for his "grappling, kissing, and comments on body features." Female employees told Variety magazine that Lasseter has a reputation for inappropriately touching women in the office, rubbing her legs, and kissing her mouth.

This is what it looks like to walk the walk. Thank you, Emma Thompson. #TIMESUP https://t.co/raJCNyCJou

In her letter, Thompson concludes that Lasseter's admission of "inappropriate hugging" and "other missteps" is not enough. She also writes about her regret that she has to give up production. However, choosing the alternative would be irresponsible for someone in their position.

"I am aware that the century-long claim to female bodies (...) will not change overnight or in one year," the letter continues. But if people like her would not take that attitude, it would be very unlikely that "things will change at the pace needed to protect my daughter's generation."

I do not think I'm overstating this, but this letter from Emma Thompson on her departure from Luck is one of the most significant moments in this movement. pic.twitter.com/RXkr7FXOkL

Activists welcomed Thompson's action. Melissa Silverstein, founder and publisher of the Women and Hollywood website, tweeted, "This is more than an open letter - Thompson has made a collective call and we hope that other powerful and privileged people will join Thompson to discuss abuse of power and those expressing this harmful behavior. "