Tweeted attacks haunt actress
In the months leading to the release of the “Ghostbusters” reboot, the film’s female stars have been the targets of criticism from online trolls who feel immense loyalty to the 1984 original.
Now that the movie has hit theaters the hatred hasn’t stopped. In fact, it has perhaps gotten only worse.
Actress and “Saturday Night Live” member Leslie Jones — who stars in the new “Ghostbusters” alongside Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon and Kristen Wiig — last week began retweeting disturbing personal attacks being sent her way on Twitter. The majority of the comments had to do with her race.
Jones noted in her own Twitter account: “I use to wonder why some celebs don’t have Twitter accts now I know. You can’t be nice and communicate with fans cause people crazy.”
Almost immediately upon seeing the vile messages, Jones’ fans began reaching out to Twitter, imploring the social media site to update its harassment policy.
Meanwhile, Paul Feig, the director of the film, started rallying “Ghostbusters” fans behind the 48-year-old actress. He wrote on his Twitter account: “Leslie Jones is one of the greatest people I know. Any personal attacks against her are attacks against us all. #LoveForLeslieJ @Lesdoggg
Following Feig’s lead, a number of celebrities, including Brie Larson, Elizabeth Banks and Anna Kendrick, started sending positive words Jones’ way with the hashtag #LoveForLeslieJ.
On his Twitter account John Boyega of “Star Wars” said, “Go through your process and hopefully you find peace. Don’t let them stop you!”
Jada Pinkett Smith wrote: #LoveForLeslieJ. Keep your head up and shine mama! @Lesdoggg
And Margaret Cho added: “Stand with @Lesdoggg #loveforlesliej she is an inspiration and a legend in the making.”