Simpson responds to Portman remarks
Jessica Simpson fired back at Natalie Portman after the actress questioned the sexual nature of some of Simpson’s earlier work in the entertainment business.
During a USA Today interview about her upcoming pop-star film “Vox Lux,” Portman shared her thoughts on how sexuality often influences the music industry before recalling a specific photo of Simpson that she said “confused” her as a young woman.
“I remember being a teenager, and there was Jessica Simpson on the cover of a magazine saying ‘I’m a virgin’ while wearing a bikini, and I was confused,” she said.
Portman’s statement prompted response from Simpson, who criticized the actress for shaming the way she dressed.
“I was disappointed this morning when I read that I ‘confused’ you by wearing a bikini in a published photo taken of me when I was still a virgin in 1999,” she wrote. “I was taught to be myself and honor the different ways all women express themselves. I have always embraced being a role model to all women. In this era of Time’s Up and all the great work you have done for women, I encourage you to do the same.”
Portman commented on Simpson’s Instagram post later, thanking her for her statement. “I didn’t mean to shame you and I’m sorry for any hurt my words may have caused,” Portman added. “I have nothing but respect for your talent and your voice that you use to encourage and empower women all over the globe.”