The production of Robin Thicke’s 2013 hit “Blurred Lines” has been the subject of intense scrutiny and controversy in recent years, particularly in light of Emily Ratajkowski’s allegations that Thicke groped her on set. Now, another model from the video, Elle Evans, is sharing her own experience of the shoot in an exclusive interview with Cosmopolitan.
The “Blurred Lines” video featured several scantily clad models, including Ratajkowski, Evans, and Jessi M’Bengue, dancing and lip-syncing to the song’s lyrics. However, Evans reveals that the tone on set was not as carefree and glamorous as it might have appeared.
A “Closed Set” and Sudden Departure
One of the most shocking revelations in Evans’ interview is that the scenes featuring Ratajkowski and Thicke were shot on a “closed set,” meaning that none of the other actors were watching. According to Evans, this was unusual for the shoot, as most of the other scenes were filmed with all the models present.
However, Evans notes that Ratajkowski left the set “very abruptly” towards the end of the shoot. This sudden departure, Evans says, caused a “bit of a scramble” among the production team, who had to figure out how to complete the video without Ratajkowski.
The Power Dynamics on Set
Evans’ account sheds further light on the power dynamics at play on the “Blurred Lines” set. According to Evans, director Diane Martel urged the models not to be “too sexy,” despite the overtly sexual nature of the song and video.
“We were given the instruction that we were invulnerable,” Evans reminisces. “There are moments where I’m seated on the stool while T.I. delicately brushes my hair. [Diane] envisioned me simply relaxing, adding a touch of a subtle shimmy and shake.”
Evans’ comments echo Ratajkowski’s own claims that she felt objectified and powerless on set, particularly after Thicke allegedly groped her.
The Aftermath of the Allegations
Ratajkowski’s allegations against Thicke have reignited the controversy surrounding the “Blurred Lines” video and its portrayal of women. However, Thicke has yet to publicly address the allegations, and Ratajkowski herself has stated that she did not write about the incident in her book as a “gotcha moment.”
Ultimately, the “Blurred Lines” video remains a controversial and complex topic, one that continues to spark discussion and debate about the treatment of women in the music industry.
Conclusion:
The “Blurred Lines” music video shoot was a contentious and fraught experience for many of the models involved, as Emily Ratajkowski’s allegations of sexual assault and harassment have made clear. However, Elle Evans’ interview with Cosmopolitan reveals even more about the power dynamics and attitudes towards women that were present on set. As we continue to grapple with issues of gender and sexuality in the entertainment industry, it’s important to listen to the voices and experiences of those who have been directly affected by these issues.
