Topline
The Power Of The Dog director Jane Campion apologized to tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams Monday for a comment she made while accepting an award at the Critics Choice Awards Sunday, when Campion said the sisters “do not play against the guys like I have to.”
Key Facts
In a statement reported on by Deadline and Variety, Campion said she “made a thoughtless comment equating what I do in the film world with all that Serena Williams and Venus Williams have achieved.”
While accepting the award for Best Director, Campion said it was an “honor to be in the room” with the Williams sisters, and called them “such marvels,” before saying, “However, you do not play against the guys like I have to,” referring to her all-male fellow nominees.
Campion’s speech has garnered negative attention online.
The director continued her apology, saying she did not mean “to devalue these two legendary Black women and world-class athletes.”
Serena and Venus, who attended the Critics Choice Awards in support of the Will Smith led-movie King Richard, about their ascension in the tennis world, which they executive produced, have not publicly commented on Campion’s remarks.
Forbes has reached out to the Williams sisters for comment.
Crucial Quote
“The fact is the Williams sisters have, actually, squared off against men on the court (and off), and they have both raised the bar and opened doors for what is possible for women in this world . . . ” Campion said in her statement. “Their accomplishments are titanic and inspiring. Serena and Venus, I apologize and completely celebrate you.”
Key Background
Campion’s call-out of the Williams sisters comes one day after she responded to critiques of The Power Of The Dog from actor Sam Elliot, who called the film a “piece of s**t.” “He’s not a cowboy; he’s an actor,” Campion said. “I think it’s a little bit sexist.” Campion has won Best Director at the Critics Choice Awards, the British Academy Film Awards, the Directors Guild Awards and the Golden Globes, and The Power Of The Dog has picked up several Best Picture wins. Will Smith has also won several awards for his role as Serena and Venus’ father. Both The Power Of The Dog and King Richard are nominated for Best Picture and several other trophies at the upcoming Academy Awards.
Further Reading
Oscars 2022 Race: ‘Power Of The Dog,’ ‘West Side Story’ Lead After BAFTAs, Critics Choice Awards (Forbes)
2022 Critics Choice Awards: ‘Power Of The Dog,’ Will Smith, Ariana DeBose Win Again (Forbes)
British Academy Film Awards 2022: ‘Power Of The Dog,’‘Dune’ Win Top BAFTA Prizes (Forbes)
