Actress Jemima Adelekan broke down in tears after experiencing discrimination from a movie director because of her facial scar.
Taking to the micro-blogging platform X, the aspiring actress shared a WhatsApp screenshot revealing the hurtful message she received from a casting director, who cited her scar as the reason for not casting her in a role she auditioned for.
In the chat, the casting director acknowledged Jemima’s talent, admitting that she fit the character perfectly and delivered a stellar performance. However, due to the character’s lack of a scar, they regretfully informed her that she wouldn’t be chosen for the role.
“Hi Jemima, good morning. In response to your audition, we would have really loved to bring you as you passed the character and nailed the role I must say but I’m sorry the character doesn’t have a scar and hence we can’t put you on. I really wish your scar wasn’t there, you would have been our perfect pick. Do have a great day, Best wishes,” the text reads.
Expressing her anguish in the caption, Jemima described the rejection as just one of the many humiliations she has faced. She pleaded with casting directors to refrain from making hurtful remarks, emphasizing that she was tired of constantly having to defend herself.
“I’m tired of being strong and I’m just begging please if you don’t have nice words to say to me, let me be, especially to casting directors, I’m trying, I’m really trying, you guys don’t know what I’ve been through and it’s only fair if you are nice with your comments, it’s okay if you don’t wanna call me back.
“I totally understand if I go for auditions and I do not get a call back, it doesn’t mean I am not good enough, that’s what I tell myself, it just means that they don’t see me in the role and that’s okay but scar shaming me, it’s not fair. Please I’m begging, it’s only worse”.
She added: “Before my scar, I’m human! A human being that has blood running in her veins. This is not a pity post, I am Just tired of being a strong girl! 29 years of my life I have done that! Not anymore please”.