Podcast Summary: Great Company with Jamie Laing – Episode Featuring Emily Atack

Episode Details:

• Title: EMILY ATACK: I'VE ONLY ENJOYED SEX A HANDFUL OF TIMES
• Release Date: November 6, 2024
• Host: Jamie Laing
• Guest: Emily Atack

Introduction

In this poignant and engaging episode of Great Company with Jamie Laing, host Jamie delves deep into the multifaceted life of actress and activist Emily Atack. From her early experiences with body image and fame to her challenges with motherhood and advocacy against sexual harassment, Emily offers a candid and heartfelt conversation that resonates with many.

Early Life and Body Image

Emily begins by reflecting on her childhood obsessions and early awareness of sexuality. She shares, “[00:06] I was so obsessed with boys… playing Kiss Chase from nursery day” (00:06), highlighting how early experiences shaped her attachment styles and perceptions of relationships. This early fixation laid the groundwork for her later struggles with body image, especially as she entered the public eye.

Career and Public Perception

As Emily discusses her role in The Inbetweeners, she opens up about unexpected body image issues that surfaced post-fame. “[10:18] … I couldn't believe how awful it was, people talking about my weight” (10:18), she confides. Despite maintaining a healthy relationship with food and never dieting, public scrutiny led to conflicting messages about her appearance. While some praised her for being a curvier actress, others harshly criticized her, leaving Emily feeling confused and insecure.

Motherhood and Pregnancy

Transitioning to motherhood, Emily shares the profound changes and challenges she faced. “[17:38] Being pregnant and looking at your body in such a different way… it's completely desexualized” (17:38), she explains. The pressure to “snap back” to her pre-pregnancy physique intensified her struggles with body image. Emily candidly discusses her difficulties with breastfeeding and the emotional toll of a miscarriage, emphasizing the intense pressure public figures face to maintain a certain image even during vulnerable times.

Campaigning Against Sexual Harassment

Emily’s advocacy work is a significant focus of the conversation. She passionately discusses the importance of affirmative consent laws, stating, “[48:00] … affirmative consent law… men are getting away with that” (48:00). Emily underscores the need for legal reforms to protect both parties in sexual encounters, aiming to shift societal attitudes and reduce the stigmatization of victims. Her dedication to creating a safer world for her son and all women is palpable throughout the discussion.

Role in 'Rivals' and Ownership of Sexuality

Discussing her latest role in the Disney show Rivals, Emily addresses the balance between portraying sexualized characters and maintaining personal autonomy. “[56:26] … take ownership again of that is really liberating and powerful” (56:26), she asserts. Emily emphasizes that her participation in such roles is integral to the story, not merely for the male gaze, showcasing her commitment to empowering portrayals of women in media.

Personal Reflections and Quickfire Questions

In the latter part of the episode, Emily engages in a series of quickfire questions, offering listeners intimate glimpses into her personality:

• Favorite Sayings: “If you love someone, let them sleep” (58:26).
• Most Embarrassing Likes: Singing passionately at parties, leading to humorous anecdotes about morning-after regrets (63:06).
• Coping Mechanisms: Emphasizing positivity and dismissing negativity, stating, “Just shit vibes… be nice” (64:41).
• Personal Strengths: Proudly declaring herself a good mother, highlighting her dedication and love for her child (66:00).

Concluding Thoughts

Jamie and co-host Sophie commend Emily for her articulate and entertaining discourse on serious topics, praising her ability to blend humor with heartfelt revelations. “[68:39] … very entertaining way and she's very funny as well” (68:39), Sophie remarks. The episode wraps up with encouraging words for listeners to engage with the podcast and follow Emily’s ongoing projects and activism.

Notable Quotes:

• “[10:18] … I couldn't believe how awful it was, people talking about my weight.”
• “[17:38] Being pregnant and looking at your body in such a different way… it's completely desexualized.”
• “[48:00] … affirmative consent law… men are getting away with that.”
• “[56:26] … take ownership again of that is really liberating and powerful.”
• “[66:00] The fact that I can now say I'm a really good mother.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of Great Company offers a raw and insightful exploration of Emily Atack’s journey through fame, motherhood, and activism. Her openness about personal struggles and dedication to advocating for societal change provides valuable lessons and inspiration for listeners. Whether grappling with body image issues, navigating the pressures of public life, or championing important causes, Emily’s story is both relatable and empowering.