Marlee Matlin Speaks Out: Addressing Backlash Over Abuse Claims Following William Hurt’s Death

Marlee Matlin recently spoke about the backlash she faced after sharing her past experiences with William Hurt. In 2009, she wrote about their abusive relationship in her memoir, I’ll Scream Later. After Hurt’s death in 2022, the reactions intensified.

In a conversation with The Guardian, Matlin noted that social media was divided. Some people dismissed her story while others defended her. "They were trying to define me," she said, expressing her frustration. She chose to step back instead of getting involved in the heated discussions online.

Reflecting on this period, she mentioned that it coincided with her awards campaign for the film CODA. Matlin felt it was best not to engage, fearing that sharing her thoughts would lead to more negativity. "Nothing would satisfy these people," she added.

Hurt and Matlin met while filming Children of a Lesser God, a role that made her the youngest Best Actress winner at the Oscars and the only deaf actress to win in that category. Yet, despite this major achievement, she felt dread as she approached the stage to accept the award from Hurt. "I was afraid because I knew, in my gut, that he wasn’t that happy," she shared.

A new documentary titled Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore explores her life, including her struggles with abuse and addiction, which were partly influenced by Hurt. Reflecting on her rehab experience, Matlin stated, "I learned that the physical and emotional abuse was not right."

Despite the pain of her past, Matlin’s story resonates with many who have endured similar experiences. In recent discussions on social media, there has been growing support for survivors of abuse. The #MeToo movement has encouraged many to share their stories, leading to a more open conversation about these issues.

As society changes, the spotlight on abuse cases continues to grow. Research from the National Domestic Violence Hotline shows that calls for help increased significantly during the pandemic. This underscores the ongoing need for awareness and support for victims.

Matlin’s experiences remind us of the importance of listening and supporting those who come forward with their stories. Her courage continues to inspire, fueling discussions around abuse, healing, and the power of voice.

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