The recent surge of s-xual harassment and assault allegations against Harvey Weinstein has had a ripple effect in Hollywood. Women within the industry are now finding the courage to step forward and share their own stories of powerful men engaging in inappropriate, unsettling, and even criminal behavior.
Today, The Hollywood Reporter presents an exclusive interview with Lisa Guerrero, an esteemed actress, broadcaster, and correspondent for Inside Edition. Guerrero recently spoke out about her unnerving audition process for the 1997 EPA thriller "Fire Down Below," starring Steven Seagal. She recounts her experience in detail, shedding light on the unusual circumstances surrounding her encounter with the actor.
Guerrero reveals that she received an invitation to Seagal's lavish Beverly Hills mansion for the audition. Sensing something amiss, she insisted that the film's casting director, the late Shari Rhodes, accompany her. Upon arriving at the mansion, Seagal himself answered the door, clad in a silk robe, and appeared "surprised" to see Rhodes by Guerrero's side.
Curiosity piqued, Guerrero proceeds to describe the interior of Seagal's home. The foyer and subsequent room were decorated in an elaborate Asian-inspired style, complete with an opulent chair placed upon a raised platform resembling a majestic throne. Seagal, still in his silk robe, gestured for Guerrero to perform the scenes she had diligently prepared. Although Guerrero delivered her audition, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that permeated the air.
After completing the audition, Guerrero hurriedly left the premises, only to receive a summons to return later that day for a "private rehearsal" with Seagal. Understandably uncomfortable, she refused the invitation. In response, Guerrero was informed that she would not be cast as the film's female lead but instead offered a smaller role. However, upon arriving on set, Guerrero discovered that she was the lone woman amidst a crowd of leering men. She had to fend off Seagal's persistent advances and invitations to meet him in his dressing room. Ultimately, her part in the film was eliminated.
During her appearance on Inside Edition, Guerrero explained that the recent scandal involving Harvey Weinstein served as a catalyst for her to share her own story. She expressed her disgust at the thought of encountering a powerful star and executive producer answering the door in a robe. Guerrero disclosed that she had warned many women in the industry about Seagal over the years, cautioning them to stay away from him. In turn, she learned of numerous similar incidents from other actresses. One particular actress reached out to Guerrero after the Inside Edition segment, revealing her own unsettling experience with Seagal during an audition at his hotel room for "Under Siege 2." The actress tearfully shared how memories of her encounter flooded back upon hearing Guerrero's account.
In Hollywood and beyond, stories of auditions gone awry continue to emerge. Lisa Guerrero's bravery in sharing her experience with Steven Seagal sheds light on the importance of addressing these issues head-on. It serves as a reminder that every person within the entertainment industry deserves a safe and respectful working environment, free from harassment or coercion.
