Ask Her More
#AskHerMore challenged red carpet interview practices that asked women actresses superficial questions about their appearance while asking male actors about their craft. Launched by The Representation Project in February 2014 ahead of the Oscars, the campaign demanded substantive questions for women in entertainment.
The Double Standard
Red carpet interviews traditionally asked women:
- “Who are you wearing?”
- “How did you get ready tonight?”
- “Can we see your dress?”
- “How do you stay in shape?”
Meanwhile, male actors were asked:
- Details about their performances
- Character research and preparation
- Upcoming projects
- Industry trends
#AskHerMore highlighted this sexist disparity.
2014-2015 Peak
At the 2014 and 2015 award shows, actresses actively promoted #AskHerMore:
- Reese Witherspoon: Encouraged interviewers to ask about her production company
- Cate Blanchett: Challenged reporters to ask substantive questions
- Jennifer Aniston: Politely redirected fashion questions to career topics
- Shailene Woodley: Discussed her environmental activism instead of her gown
Media Response
Some entertainment journalists embraced #AskHerMore, preparing questions about:
- Acting techniques and character development
- Directors they wanted to work with
- Social causes they championed
- Career aspirations and creative goals
- Industry representation and equity
Others dismissed the campaign as “ruining the fun” of fashion coverage.
Limitations & Critique
Critics noted #AskHerMore focused on elite actresses who could deflect questions, while many actresses relied on fashion coverage for publicity and endorsement deals. The campaign also didn’t address deeper industry sexism:
- Age discrimination
- Pay inequality
- Lack of complex roles for women
- Harassment and assault
Legacy
While red carpets still feature fashion coverage, #AskHerMore contributed to broader conversations about media representation of women. By 2017, the hashtag’s usage declined, but its influence persisted in more substantive award show interviews.
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