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Carrie Fisher was a multifaceted figure in the entertainment world: an actress renowned for roles beyond “Star Wars,” a gifted writer, and an enduring icon. Known for her unabashed honesty, she didn’t shy away from expressing her views, even if it meant clashing with Hollywood’s power players. One of the most striking examples of her courage came when she stood up for a fellow woman in the industry.
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In a candid conversation with 94.9 MixFM in Tucson, Arizona, Heather Ross recounted her experience with sexual harassment amidst the revelations of Harvey Weinstein’s crimes. She recalled a harrowing incident where an Oscar-winning producer attempted to assault her, only for her to escape his grasp as he threatened her career with the words, “You’ll never make a movie in my town and get the f*** out of my car,” a line befitting a cinematic villain (via People).
Upon hearing Ross’s ordeal, Fisher took a bold stand. She sent the producer a Tiffany box containing a cow’s tongue, accompanied by a note warning of similar consequences for another body part should he repeat his actions. This gesture encapsulates Fisher’s essence — a fearless advocate unafraid to challenge wrongdoing. Her forthright nature extended beyond personal anecdotes, including her candid critique of the iconic space bikini she wore in “Star Wars.”
If you or anyone you know has experienced sexual assault, support is available at the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or via RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
Throughout her career, Fisher excelled both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, contributing her writing talents to numerous films and TV shows. A talented script doctor, she penned some memorable scenes, including one in “Anastasia.” Her sharp wit shone through her work, reflecting her outspoken persona. For Heather Ross, Fisher’s bold support was affirming, proving her as a genuine ally willing to act decisively against injustice.
The infamous cow tongue story is emblematic of Fisher’s refusal to accept the status quo. Beyond her advocacy for friends, Fisher was a passionate mental health advocate, openly discussing her struggles with bipolar disorder. Her transparency inspired many, earning her gratitude from those she touched with her openness about mental health challenges.
The assault that led to a cow’s tongue
20th Century Fox
Carrie Fisher spent her career working in front of and behind the camera on numerous TV shows and movies. She was a prolific writer and script doctor, even writing one of the most memorable scenes in “Anastasia.” Fisher’s irascible wit is evident in her writing, and it likely contributed to her becoming the outspoken person she was. For Heather Ross, her friend’s actions helped her feel validated. She understood that Fisher wasn’t some kind of fake ally in the business. She was willing to stand up and make things right in a unique and not particularly subtle way.
The story of the cow tongue is legendary and demonstrates Fisher’s unwillingness to toe the line and accept the injustices happening to and around her. In addition to supporting her friends, Fisher was a mental health advocate, having dealt with bipolar disorder throughout her life. There are countless stories of people reaching out to thank her for being open about her own mental health.
A few weeks before her untimely death, Fisher penned an opinion piece for The Guardian titled “Ask Carrie Fisher: I’m bipolar — how do you feel at peace with mental illness?” Fisher may be known as both a princess and a general to “Star Wars” fans, but to Ross and many others struggling with mental health, body positivity, and the societal marginalization of women, she was a real-world hero who had their backs.
If you or someone you know needs help with mental health, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.
