Melissa McCarthy is a name that has been on everyone’s lips lately. The two-time Oscar-nominated actor has been making headlines for her upcoming role as the villainous Ursula in Disney’s live-action remake of The Little Mermaid. But her latest interview with People Magazine for their 2023 Beautiful Issue showcases her commitment to being a true ally and her powerful message on inclusivity.
In the interview, McCarthy recalls her journey of self-discovery during her high school years, a time when she encountered harsh judgment. She decided to explore self-expression through fashion, which led to mohawks and blue hair. McCarthy explains that she was fascinated with people expressing themselves and sought out more of them. For her, inclusivity is not just wonderful, but necessary. “We need it. We crave it,” McCarthy said.
McCarthy’s ultimate avenue of self-exploration was making her own start in the entertainment world as New York drag queen Miss Y, a character that gave her “such confidence.” It wasn’t until her 30s that she began to truly embrace herself. “I’m okay with who I am,” she told People. “And if someone wasn’t thrilled with that, that’s okay too.”
As McCarthy has ascended to the heights of fame, she has not forgotten the importance of being inclusive in everything she does. “When someone’s being their authentic self and it hurts no one else in the world…the simplest rule is: just be kind,” she concluded.
In a separate interview for Good Morning America, McCarthy explained how “crazy” it was to get the call from People but wants to help redefine what beauty means. “I love what it says,” she explained. “I mean, I’m 52 and I just like that we’re kind of redefining what we want to kind of think could be beautiful, could be strong, could be anything. Because I think they’re all wrapped up together now.”
McCarthy’s message on inclusivity and embracing authenticity serves as a reminder that everyone deserves to feel loved and accepted for who they are. In a world where judgment and hate can be all too common, kindness and inclusivity can make all the difference.