Eva Longoria Calls Out Hollywood for Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color

Eva Longoria, known for her role in "Desperate Housewives," has criticized the entertainment industry for failing to be truly progressive in its representation of women and people of color. She highlights the lack of gender equity in filmmaking positions and the decline in representation for Latinos in front of the camera.

Eva Longoria, the acclaimed actress and producer, has boldly called out Hollywood for its lack of progress towards women and people of color. In an interview with Grazia magazine, Longoria expressed her disappointment that the industry continues to fall short of its alleged progressive ideals.

Eva Longoria Calls Out Hollywood for Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color

Despite the perception that Hollywood is a liberal and inclusive environment, Longoria argues that data tells a different story. She points out the concerning decline in female directors and Latino representation on-screen.

"People think Hollywood is a liberal, progressive industry, but it’s not," she asserts. "We have fewer female directors and fewer Latinos in front of the camera than we did a couple of years ago. So, we’re actually going in the wrong direction, even though the perception is that we’re doing so great."

Eva Longoria Calls Out Hollywood for Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color

Longoria emphasizes the importance of gender equity in all positions within the entertainment industry. She notes that women continue to face significant barriers and discrimination compared to their male counterparts.

"Women are still not getting the same opportunities as our male counterparts," she says. "What we do [in the industry] matters, it can change culture and, when you change culture, you can change policy, perception. You can change a lot of things with storytelling."

Eva Longoria Calls Out Hollywood for Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color

Longoria's concerns extend beyond gender equality to the representation of Latinos in the industry. She highlighted the underrepresentation of Latino directors, writers, and actors, particularly women.

"Latinos are still underrepresented in front of and behind the camera," she says. "We’re still not tapping into the females in the Latino community."

Eva Longoria Calls Out Hollywood for Lack of Progress Towards Women and People of Color

Longoria is using her platform to amplify the need for change in Hollywood. She has directed her own films, including the recent "Flamin' Hot," to create opportunities for herself and others.

"I like producing with purpose," she explains. "I want to tell stories for my Latine community. We have a lot of heroes, things to say, an amazing talent pool of storytellers. It’s refreshing and innovative — in an industry that keeps going to the same writers and creators for the same stories — to have a different perspective and point of view, because it changes everything, makes it more interesting, more relevant."

Longoria's commitment to fostering inclusivity in Hollywood is evident in her work with her production company, UnbeliEVAble Entertainment. She aims to tell diverse stories that break stereotypes and create opportunities for underrepresented voices.

"I want to tell stories that have a positive impact on the world," she says. "I want to tell stories that make people think, that make people laugh, that make people cry, that make people feel good about themselves."

Longoria's call to action is a reminder of the ongoing need for progress in Hollywood and beyond. She challenges the industry to do better, to create a truly equitable and inclusive environment where all voices can be heard and celebrated.