COVER - Elisabeth Röhm Is Classically Powerful

Elisabeth Röhm’s most recent role as Fox News host Martha MacCallum, in Lionsgate’s “Bombshell” (directed by Jay Roach), recounts the controversial figures, now infamous defense of the late Fox CEO Roger Ailes. “Bombshell” is a biographical film centered on accounts of the women at Fox News who set out to expose CEO Roger Ailes for sexual harassment. “Bombshell” casts a lens on the overarching issues concerning equality and abuse of power in the workforce.

So far, the hope of witnessing a truly egalitarian world seems nothing short of naive - especially within our lifetime. Yes, public opinion within the United States, in particular, has made significant progress supporting gender and race equality, and in general progressive ideologies seem to be the norm - at least so it seems in New York. However, when we look beyond the superficial platitudes, it becomes much more apparent that we have a long road ahead before true equality is reached. If there's any doubt in relation to my opinions, check out the following cases.

When in positions of power or impregnable defense of anonymity, some truths become more painfully apparent — the aforementioned case of Roger Ailes, Harvey Weinstein, the rise of the Me Too Movement, and many many others. Even social news aggregation and discussion site Reddit has faced controversy due to some of its user base and their anti-women sentiment.

However, despite the setbacks, there is a silver lining. Movements like Me Too have encouraged and empowered many women through solidarity. Albeit difficult, it has shown, for the most part, suffering in silence does not have to be the only option. Many female celebrities and women across the world have either come forth with their own experiences, and others have voiced their support as a collective. Elisabeth Röhm is no exception.

In addition, Elisabeth works with The Trevor Project, which works as a crisis hotline for youth, especially LGBTQ youth. She also works as a global ambassador for Respect Your Universe (RYU), a brand that is committed to mutual respect in the world.  Please read our exclusive interview below to learn about Elisabeth and her works.

Where are you based?
California.

What got you interested in acting. How did you break into the entertainment industry?
I always wanted to tell stories and have always been passionate about the human experience.  I was a writing major at Sarah Lawrence and acting just went hand-in-hand with what I was studying. It was a natural step for me.  About a year after college, a very dear girlfriend of mine introduced me to her manager.  Lucky for me, he sent me out on one audition that I landed – a three year contract with “One Life to Live.”

Most recently, you were in Lionsgate’s “Bombshell," where you play Martha MacCallum. For those who don’t know, Bombshell is the story of a group of women that decide to take on Fox News head Roger Ailes and the toxic atmosphere he presided over at the network. Can you tell us about your experience with being a part of such a powerful, pro-women, film? How was it preparing for this role?
I was very flattered to be asked by Jay Roach to do a cameo for the film.  There is definitely an uncanny resemblance.  I felt extremely passionate about being in the movie because of the relevance to our times right now.  Speaking out against any abusive power is our responsibility and I was very proud to be a part of this incredible film that Charlize Theron produced. I admire her greatly as an actress and also as an individual.

"Bombshell" is based on true events. How closely did you follow the sexual misconduct scandal? What are your thoughts?
I was very aware of the Roger Ailes scandal and I felt that the film depicted the demise perfectly.

Your character, Martha MacCallum, has defended Roger Ailes amidst the sexual harassment allegations. What would you do if you were a reporter in Martha's position?
I don’t have any comments to make about Martha McCallum.  But I assure you that if I was sexually harassed, I would definitely speak out against it.  We are now living in a culture where I would be supported by the majority for respecting myself, my value and my worth.  We as women are now united and stronger than ever, but we have to maintain this commitment to each other so that we don’t revert to the old ways again.  It’s not just a moment, but a real movement.

In late 2017 and 2018, we've seen an increase in high profile publicized cases of sexual harassment sparking the #MeToo Movement. What are your thoughts on the #MeToo Movement? What advice would you give to victims of harassment?
You came to live out loud.  Don’t ever sell yourself out and let someone get away with abusing their power and terrorizing you professionally or personally.  I am very glad that we are living in a very strong ‘female now’ period.

You were also on Jane The Virgin, another powerfully progressive show. While very different, you still played a character who was in opposition to the main characters. What was this role like? What was it like being on the set for Jane The Virgin? Did you have to learn any Spanish?
I have the utmost respect for Jennie Urman and Gina Rodriguez and I was a huge fan of the show before I decided to join as ‘Eileen’. It was so fun to be there every day.  As heartfelt and funny as the show is, that is exactly what it feels like on set.

For those who don't know, can you tell us about RYU and why you decided to become one of their Global Ambassadors?
I was really excited to become part owner of a brand that is committed to respect.  I wanted to create a narrative for more self-respect and mutual respect in the world.  Not to mention, the athletic apparel is great quality and I really love the clothing.

What does Respect Your Universe mean to you?
It means that I see you as an individual, and the uniqueness of your universe is respected by me. As well as, I want MY unique universe to be respected by others.

You've also used your notoriety and platform to support a myriad of philanthropic endeavors. Can you talk about your work with the American Heart Association and St. Jude?
The American Heart Association became a focal point in my life after my mother, Lisa, had a massive heart attack at the age of 60 and passed away.  My aunt Laurie also had a heart attack and passed away at 67. 

St. Jude has always been really important to me.  The fact that they never make a family pay for the care for their child, makes St. Jude’s one of the most extraordinary places of love, hope and humanity that I’ve ever heard of.

Jejune loves that you work with Global Green, which is working towards a more sustainable future. Can you tell us a little bit about them and your work with them?
I’ve always felt that Global Green is incredibly brave and progressive.  They are border-crossers and I have loved working with them for the last 15 years.

You also support The Trevor Project, which works as a crisis hotline for youth, especially LGBTQ youth. How did you get involved with this amazing organization? Can you tell us a little bit about your experiences with them?
I became involved with The Trevor Project several years ago. The Trevor Project is a suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ youth. They have a very strong and powerful network and I truly feel that the work they’re doing is extremely important and effective. At RYU, we’ve made donations to The Trevor Project because we continue to share in their mission to make sure that no child feels alone, bullied, rejected or humiliated to the point where they want to take their own life.

Much of your charity work is done with your daughter, Easton. Can you tell us about those special moments? Why is this so important?
I love to share my work for the American Red Cross with my daughter Easton. I have worked for the American Red Cross for the last 20 years in disaster response and preparedness. The Red Cross is a universal language of compassion. Obviously, my daughter knows of all the other work that I do, but the Red Cross has been the nearest and dearest to my heart and I have worked for their organization the longest. I hope that by exposing Easton to the philanthropic work that I do, that she too will become somebody in her lifetime that knows that we must give back. It’s not a question of if. We can’t survive as a humanity if we don’t take care of each other.

What is your motto in life?
My motto for life is a great quote that Russell Crowe said in an interview once. He said, “life is messy and I want to get it all over me.” That and Frank Sinatra saying “I’ll take a nap when I get to heaven!”

To learn more about Elisabeth Röhm please follow her via the below platforms:
Instagram: elisabethrohm
Twitter: elisabethrohm

 
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