Daisy Edgar-Jones On Being Top Billed Over Male Co-Stars Glen Powell, Sebastian Stan & Paul Mescal: "They Are So Generous" - Deadline

As the discussion surrounding gender parity in Hollywood takes center stage, rising starlet Daisy Edgar-Jones shares her experiences about her journey in the industry. Known for her breakout role in the critically acclaimed TV series 'Normal People', Edgar-Jones has managed to quickly climb up the ranks to achieve top billing status in her recent projects. What's notable is not just her meteoric rise, but also the supportive environment fostered by her male co-stars, who have willingly accepted her being billed above them. In this piece, we delve into Edgar-Jones' experiences and her male co-stars' reactions, shedding light on a potential shift towards greater gender equality in Hollywood.

Daisy Edgar-Jones, the young British actress who has fast become a household name, is speaking out about her experiences working with male co-stars Glen Powell, Sebastian Stan, and Paul Mescal. Known for her role in the critically acclaimed drama "Normal People", Edgar-Jones has often found herself being top-billed over her male counterparts, a position she attributes to the supportive nature of her co-stars.

Having worked with actors like Powell in "Little Birds", Stan in "Fresh", and Mescal in "Normal People", Edgar-Jones has had ample opportunity to observe the dynamics of the industry. One recurring theme she notes is the willingness of these male actors to support her despite the traditional norms of the industry that often prioritize male actors. She credits this to their generosity and understanding of the changing landscape of the film industry.

Edgar-Jones' comments come at a time when the film industry is undergoing significant shifts in its treatment of gender roles and billing practices. Her experiences serve as a testament to the increasing recognition of female talent in an industry historically dominated by men. This enthusiastic endorsement from Edgar-Jones suggests that there is a positive change brewing in Hollywood, one that is being actively supported by actors like Powell, Stan, and Mescal.

The actress' observations also shed light on the collaborative nature of the film industry. While top billing typically brings with it a certain prestige and recognition, Edgar-Jones emphasizes that it is ultimately the combined efforts of all actors that contribute to the success of a film. This spirit of collaboration and mutual support, she suggests, may be the key to achieving greater gender equality in the industry.

The notion of giving top billing to a female lead over male co-stars is not a common occurrence in Hollywood, a fact that Edgar-Jones acknowledges. She shares, "I'm aware that it's not the norm, and it's something I don't take for granted." She further remarks on the positive impact of this shift in traditional on-set dynamics, saying it sends a powerful message about gender equality in the industry.

The support of her male co-stars, Glen Powell, Sebastian Stan, and Paul Mescal, has not only boosted Edgar-Jones' confidence but also fostered a collaborative and respectful environment on set. "It's wonderful to work with such talented actors who understand the importance of sharing the spotlight. They are so generous," she says, appreciating the humility and camaraderie shown by her co-stars.

Despite the unusual circumstance, Edgar-Jones points out that her co-stars have never made her feel like she didn't deserve the top billing. "Never once did they make me feel lesser. On the contrary, they've always encouraged me to own my position," she says. Their support has been instrumental in creating a more balanced and respectful work environment, demonstrating the changing attitudes towards gender roles in Hollywood.

Edgar-Jones hopes that this trend continues in the future, leading to more opportunities for women to take center stage. She adds, "It's a step in the right direction, but there's still a long way to go. We need more stories where women are at the forefront, and men are there to support them, not overshadow them."

While the film industry has made strides in gender equality, there still exist some disparities. For instance, the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film reported that women accounted for only 31% of all speaking roles in the top 100 films of 2019.

Dr. Martha Lauzen, executive director of the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film at San Diego State University, has been studying this trend for years. According to Dr. Lauzen, "The underrepresentation of women in significant roles is not merely a reflection of societal biases, but it also reinforces them. However, the support of male co-stars like Powell, Stan, and Mescal in promoting their female counterparts is a promising sign. This kind of allyship can play a crucial role in shifting the narrative."

Edgar-Jones’ experience of being top-billed over her male co-stars and their support in this aspect is not a standalone case. It signals a shift in Hollywood's gender dynamics, suggesting a possible trend towards more balanced billing and screen presence. Such actions by male stars, as noted by Dr. Lauzen, can help to change perceptions and contribute to a more equitable industry.

In conclusion, Daisy Edgar-Jones' experience in the entertainment industry serves as a positive example of gender dynamics evolving in Hollywood. Her male co-stars, Glen Powell, Sebastian Stan and Paul Mescal, have shown support and generosity in regard to Edgar-Jones' top billing, demonstrating a shift towards equality and mutual respect.

Edgar-Jones' story is a testament to the changing landscape of the film and television industry, where traditional hierarchies are being challenged and redefined. Her experience suggests a promising future where talent and ability, rather than gender, define an actor's standing.

Source: http://deadline.com/2025/03/daisy-edgar-jones-top-billed-glen-powell-sebastian-stan-paul-mescal-1236350783/