Stage Combat The Podcast: Patreon Sneak Preview - "Why Actors Bully Other Actors"

Overview

In the Patreon-exclusive episode titled "Why Actors Bully Other Actors," hosted by Sean Hayden of Stage Combat The Podcast, the conversation delves deep into the pervasive issue of bullying within the entertainment industry. Joined by Broadway actor and psychology master's graduate Michael McGurk, the episode explores the roots, manifestations, and impacts of bullying among actors, offering both personal anecdotes and academic insights.

Introduction to the Topic

Sean Hayden opens the episode by introducing the focus on bullying in the entertainment sector, a pervasive issue that many actors encounter yet often hesitate to discuss openly. He sets the stage for an in-depth exploration by bringing in Michael McGurk, whose academic background in psychology and personal experiences with bullying make him an ideal guest.

Guest Introduction and Background

Timestamp [01:14]

Sean: "Today I want to have a conversation about bullying in the entertainment industry... Michael has completed his master's degree in psychology and he's pursuing a post master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. He did his capstone research on bullying..."

Michael McGurk shares his journey in the theater world, highlighting his experiences working on Broadway and his academic pursuits to understand bullying's psychological underpinnings.

Personal Experiences with Bullying

Timestamp [03:53]

Michael discusses his role in a Broadway production of "The Wedding Singer" where he felt out of place due to differing dance styles and perceived favoritism from a choreographer. This environment fostered feelings of being an outcast and targeted, leading him to question his place in the production.

Timestamp [06:15]

Michael elaborates on the toxic dynamics within certain casts, mentioning how the departure of the creative team and negative reviews intensified bullying behaviors. He reflects on how the lack of leadership and support exacerbates the hostile environment.

Psychological Insights into Bullying

Timestamp [09:12]

Michael delves into his research, explaining that both bullies and victims often exhibit high levels of neuroticism—characterized by negative emotionality, anxiety, and depression. He notes that bullies may replicate aggressive behaviors they experienced at home, perpetuating a cycle of hostility.

Timestamp [10:30]

Discussion revolves around why some individuals become bullies while others become victims, despite similar underlying traits like neuroticism. Michael suggests that bullies often have a history of experiencing violence or aggression, which they internalize and externalize in their interactions.

The Role of Bystanders

Timestamp [15:07]

Sean asks about the influence of bystanders in bullying scenarios. Michael emphasizes that bystanders play a crucial role in either enabling or mitigating bullying. They determine whether the hostile behavior continues by choosing to either support the bully or stand up against the mistreatment.

Impact on Mental Health

Timestamp [09:21]

The conversation highlights the severe mental health repercussions of bullying, including suicidal thoughts and long-term psychological trauma. Michael stresses that bullying is not merely uncomfortable but causes significant emotional harm that can extend into adulthood.

Cultural and Structural Factors in Theater

Timestamp [12:02]

Michael discusses how the theater environment, characterized by intense competition and the blending of personal and professional identities, creates fertile ground for bullying. The lack of clear policies and leadership exacerbates these issues, making it difficult to address and prevent mistreatment.

Timestamp [19:34]

He criticizes the prevalent attitude in theater that one must simply "put up with" bullying, arguing that this mentality is unacceptable and harmful. Michael advocates for establishing clear anti-bullying policies and fostering a culture of respect and support within theatrical communities.

Strategies for Addressing Bullying

Timestamp [22:52]

Michael and Sean discuss actionable steps to combat bullying, emphasizing the importance of standing up for oneself and others. They advocate for creating awareness, implementing strict policies, and fostering a supportive environment where bullying is not tolerated.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Timestamp [23:31]

Michael urges listeners experiencing bullying to seek support and reminds them that they are not alone. He underscores the importance of community and shared stories in overcoming bullying and fostering a healthier industry.

Sean wraps up by providing resources for those affected by bullying, including contacting Actors Equity and accessing mental health support through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988).

Notable Quotes

• Michael McGurk [04:48]: "I probably wasn't the best fit for that track in hindsight, but I auditioned fair and square and got the job... I felt like I had a target on me."

• Michael McGurk [09:21]: "Bullying really does have terrible negative effects... up to and including thoughts of suicide and aggression."

• Michael McGurk [19:37]: "It is bullshit. Why should you have to be strong enough to put up with it?"

• Michael McGurk [22:52]: "That's not acceptable. And it's not acceptable to be a bystander to it."

Key Takeaways

1. Prevalence of Bullying in Theater: The competitive and high-stress nature of the entertainment industry, particularly theater, fosters environments where bullying can thrive.

2. Psychological Roots: Both bullies and victims often share traits such as high neuroticism, but their backgrounds and personal histories influence whether they perpetuate or succumb to bullying behaviors.

3. Role of Leadership and Policies: Effective leadership and clear anti-bullying policies are essential in creating a respectful and supportive work environment.

4. Importance of Bystanders: The actions of bystanders can either sustain or dismantle bullying dynamics, highlighting the need for collective responsibility in addressing mistreatment.

5. Mental Health Implications: Bullying has profound and lasting impacts on mental health, necessitating proactive support systems and resources for those affected.

Conclusion

This episode of Stage Combat The Podcast sheds light on the intricate and often concealed issue of bullying within the acting community. Through personal narratives and psychological analysis, Sean Hayden and Michael McGurk underscore the urgent need for cultural and structural changes to foster a healthier, more respectful environment for all performers.

For listeners seeking support or more information, resources are provided, encouraging open dialogue and collective action against bullying in the entertainment industry.