Five Events And Controversies That Shook Hollywood In 2023

The year 2023 brought a wave of controversies that reverberated throughout the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting impact on Hollywood and beyond. From labour strikes to the complexities of the Palestinian ethnic cleansing and unexpected movie controversies, the year was marked by intense debates and career-altering moments for some of the industry's biggest names. 

Here, we discuss the top controversies that shook the entertainment world in 2023, shedding light on the issues that sparked heated discussions.

The Writers' & Actors' Strikes: Labor Unrest in Hollywood

Undoubtedly, the most significant upheaval in the entertainment industry in 2023 was the dual strike by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). The Writers Guild initiated their strike in May, citing important issues such as the absence of minimum staffing requirements in writers' rooms, the lack of streaming residuals, and the potential use of AI-generated material. Negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) stalled, causing a noticeable void in late-night talk shows and disrupting fall network lineups.

Simultaneously, the Screen Actors Guild began their strike in July, voicing concerns about streaming residuals, AI, and the threat of background actors losing work to digital scans. The impact was felt across the entertainment landscape, with major film releases like Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom and Dune: Part Two delayed until satisfactory agreements were reached in September and November, with final ratifications in October and December. The full repercussions of these strikes will likely extend into 2024, as the industry grapples with the aftermath of it all.

War Effects on Media

The Palestinian ethnic cleansing brought the ongoing conflict to the forefront of Hollywood discussions. Open letters circulated, urging President Joe Biden to intervene and support a ceasefire. However, expressing opinions on the conflict proved perilous for some, with repercussions affecting careers. Figures like Melissa Barrera faced dismissal from projects due to their statements on social media. The war's impact on the entertainment industry raised questions about the responsibility of celebrities in navigating politically charged issues and the potential consequences of not using their platforms for the right cause. 

Barbenheimer: When Entertainment Sparks Backlash

The Barbenheimer double-feature, featuring Barbie and Oppenheimer, dominated movie theatres in 2023 but was not without its share of controversies. Barbie faced criticism for its feminist message, while Oppenheimer sparked debates over its representation of Japanese and Native American perspectives on the atomic bomb. The meme itself, combining toy-based comedy with a serious historical drama, led to unintended consequences. Japanese audiences took offence, prompting an apology from Warner Bros. Japan. The incident highlighted the challenges of humour in a globalized world, where cultural sensitivities can clash, even unintentionally.

Jada Pinkett Smith: The Aftermath of "The Slap"

Jada Pinkett Smith's memoir, Worthy, released in October, unveiled a wealth of revelations surrounding the infamous Oscar night slap and her marriage to Will Smith. The memoir provided a behind-the-scenes look at their separation, with Pinkett Smith disclosing that she and Smith had been apart for years before the incident. Shockingly, Chris Rock's invitation came during this period, adding another layer to the narrative. As Pinkett Smith's disclosures fueled public interest, the controversy surrounding "The Slap" took on new dimensions, illustrating how personal revelations can reshape public perceptions and influence the narratives surrounding high-profile events.

The Woman in Me: Britney Spears's Memoir

Britney Spears's highly anticipated memoir, The Woman in Me, had vulnerable revelations about her life, love, and challenges under conservatorship. The memoir delved into her tumultuous relationship with Justin Timberlake, a fling with Colin Farrell, and the missed opportunity to star in The Notebook. With 1.1 million copies sold domestically in its first week, Spears's memoir captivated audiences and reignited conversations about the singer's journey, shedding light on the complexities of fame, relationships, and the legal battles that defined her public image.

The controversies that unfolded in the entertainment industry in 2023 reflect the ever-evolving nature of the business—from labour disputes and geopolitical conflicts to unexpected movie-related uproars and personal revelations, the year showcased the industry's capacity to entertain and confront complex issues. As the entertainment world grapples with the aftermath of these controversies, it remains to be seen how they will shape the future of Hollywood and the broader cultural conversation. The events of 2023 have undoubtedly left an important mark on the entertainment industry, prompting reflection and dialogue about its role in society.