Saoirse Ronan's comments on women's safety spark viral debate

In October 2023, a significant moment regarding women's safety occurred during an episode of BBC's The Graham Norton Show in which Irish American actress Saoirse Ronan appeared alongside fellow actor Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, and Eddie Redmayne. The segment gained widespread attention after Redmayne shared insights into his preparation for a role that involved espionage and self-defense techniques, which included receiving guidance from Paul Biddiss, a real-life espionage advisor. During the conversation, Mescal humorously questioned the practicality of using a phone as a defense mechanism, to which Ronan interjected, emphasizing the reality that women constantly consider personal safety. She garnered applause from the audience after calling attention to the societal pressures and fears women face regarding potential threats. In light of this exchange, Biddiss later remarked that while Ronan's points were valid, he believed the media reaction to the banter among the male actors overshadowed the serious issue being discussed. Following the broadcast, Mescal expressed support for Ronan’s comments, acknowledging the importance of discussing women's safety and recognizing her perceptiveness on the topic, which he reiterated during an appearance on RTE's The Late Late Show. Ronan found the surrounding media reaction surprising and urged individuals to consider the comments in context, reiterating that the men on the panel were not dismissing her point but rather affirming its significance. The discussion has inspired a broader conversation about self-awareness and personal safety for women in various settings, highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue about such critical issues. As a result, the segment has been viewed as a pivotal moment in addressing the realities women face while navigating their daily lives amidst potential dangers, sustaining conversations about empowerment, awareness, and societal norms.