Chloe Bailey Faces Criticism For Sex Scene In ‘Swarm’: Examining Colorism & Double Standards In Hollywood

Chloe Bailey is receiving criticism for her sex scene in Donald Glover’s new series “Swarm.” While her co-star, Damson Idris, is not facing the same scrutiny, Chloe’s portrayal in the scene has sparked important discussions about double standards and colorism in Hollywood. More inside…

Chloe Bailey is facing criticism for her sex scene in Donald Glover’s new Prime Video series “Swarm.” Even though her co-star, British actor Damson Idris, was also part of the scene, we haven’t seen him face any scrutiny for the explicit scene. The criticism of Chloe raises important questions about colorism and double standards in Hollywood.

In the psychological thriller, the “Treat Me” singer plays Marissa, the sister of a fan who becomes obsessed with a Beyoncé-like artist and goes on a murderous rampage. Chloe’s character is shown having sex with her boyfriend Khalid, played by Damson, while her sister, Dre (played by Dominique Fishback), watches. The scene is not particularly graphic, but it has caused controversy nonetheless. And we’re really confused why folks are up in arms about it.

 

 

In a recent interview, Chloe, previously 1/2 of Chloe x Halle, revealed that she was scared to film the scene, but the “Snowfall” actor made her feel comfortable. She praised him for being a supportive co-star and making her feel at ease during the filming process.

Watch the clip below:

Despite this, some people are criticizing Chloe for taking part in the scene and are questioning whether colorism played a role in her decision.

The conversation took an unexpected turn when someone dragged Halle Berry into the conversation in comparison to Chloe. Halle Berry’s role in Monster’s Ball, which featured a much more graphic sex scene, was brought up in comparison.

One comment read, “Halle Berry getting back shots role got her an Oscar right?” While it may seem negative at first glance, the user actually supported Chloe’s decision by pointing out that Halle took career risks that ended up working out for her.

However, things quickly got heated when another Twitter user brought up the issue of colorism and Halle Berry’s lighter skin tone. The tweet alleged that Halle has benefited from “whiteness” and fits Hollywood’s traditional white European beauty standard more than Chloe or any other dark-skinned Black woman.

The implication being that Halle has had an easier time in the industry because she is “white-passing.” The Twitter user further argued that colorism still exists and that Chloe may not have the same advantages as Halle because of her darker skin tone.

”Halle Berry is not black she’s biracial ‘white passing’ plus she was Hollyweirds favorite. Megan Good just talked about how hard her career has been by taking these type of roles. Chole will learn the hard way we don’t make up the rules,” one user tweeted.

Now, y’all…white passing?

Peep more reactions below:

It is important to note that Chloe is not the first Black actress to face criticism for taking part in a sex scene. In fact, Black actresses have historically been hypersexualized in Hollywood and have had to navigate double standards when it comes to on-screen nudity and sexuality. Black women are often portrayed as “exotic” and “wild,” and their sexuality is fetishized and exploited for the male gaze.

Furthermore, the criticism of Chloe’s sex scene highlights the ways in which women are held to different standards than men in Hollywood. Damson Idris has faced no backlash for his role in the scene with Chloe. Instead, he is being praised for his acting abilities and for being a supportive co-star. This double standard is unacceptable and perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes.

It is also worth noting that Chloe is a young artist who is still discovering her artistic voice. She has been criticized for her recent collaborations with Chris Brown, who has a history of domestic violence. However, it is important to allow artists the space to experiment and make mistakes. Holding them to impossible standards and criticizing them for taking risks is counterproductive and stifles creativity.

The criticism of Chloe’s sex scene in “Swarm” is an example of the double standards and colorism that persist in Hollywood. Black actresses have historically been hypersexualized and held to different standards than their male counterparts. It is important to continue the conversation about race and representation in Hollywood and to hold the industry accountable for its harmful practices. We should support artists in their artistic endeavors and give them the space to make mistakes and grow.

Photo: Instagram