Actress Rose Byrne Calls Out Gratuitous Nudity in Scripts

In a recent interview, acclaimed actress Rose Byrne, 46, revealed her "deal breakers" when it comes to scripts, particularly those involving gratuitous nudity. Byrne, known for her roles in the legal thriller "Damages" and the comedy "Bridesmaids," expressed her discomfort with female characters being asked to strip down "for absolutely no reason."

The Australian actress explained that she has seen "so many bad scripts" where the female protagonist is required to undress, often without a clear narrative justification. Byrne acknowledged that nudity can make sense in certain contexts, but she is always left wondering, "Why does this? For what reason?"

Byrne also shared her frustration with scripts that describe female characters as "really complicated women" or use other "wildly generic" language. She believes these types of broad, one-dimensional depictions do a disservice to women in the industry.

Reflecting on her early career, Byrne recalled reading for roles that often fell into the "wife," "girlfriend," or "sexpot" archetypes, particularly in comedy. However, she was fortunate to work with directors like Paul Feig and Sofia Coppola, who provided more nuanced opportunities for women.

Byrne's role as Duchesse de Polignac in Coppola's 2006 film "Marie Antoinette" was a standout example. Byrne described the character as "irreverent" and "indulgent," with a "spontaneous" quality that allowed her to explore more comedic territory after her dramatic turn in "Damages."

As Byrne continues to navigate the industry, she remains committed to seeking out roles that challenge the traditional tropes and offer a more authentic representation of women on screen.