Lili Reinhart Shares Surreal Experience with Male Director on Set
Synopsis
Lili Reinhart opens up about a troubling encounter with a male director who told her to suck in her stomach. As she promotes her new film, Forbidden Fruits, she reflects on empowerment and collaboration in female-centered projects.
Key Takeaways
Lili Reinhart shares a troubling on-set experience.
She emphasizes the importance of female empowerment in film projects.
Her character in Forbidden Fruits represents strength and autonomy.
Collaboration on female-led sets enhances creativity and respect.
Upcoming film The Love Hypothesis showcases her continued growth as an actress.
Los Angeles, April 2 (NationPress) Hollywood star Lili Reinhart recounted a toxic experience while filming, involving a male director.
The actress, renowned for her role as Betty Cooper in the popular series “Riverdale,” shared her thoughts during a discussion with co-stars Victoria Pedretti, Alexandra Shipp, and Lola Tung about personal acting notes in a video for Cosmopolitan.
Reinhart stated, “Oh, absolutely,” as she discussed an uncomfortable moment while promoting her female-directed film Forbidden Fruits.
She described how a male director approached her and discreetly said, ‘Just suck in your stomach a little bit.’
Although her co-stars encouraged her to spill the director’s name, Reinhart playfully responded, “I’ll tell you later.”
In Meredith Alloway’s film Forbidden Fruits, Reinhart takes on the role of Apple, a leader of a cult of witches operating from an upscale store called Free Eden. As Apple, alongside Cherry and Fig, they welcome a new member named Pumpkin, only to find treachery within their ranks.
During a recent visit to Deadline’s SXSW Studio, Reinhart expressed how empowering it felt to work on a female-driven set.
“It was the ultimate collaboration, which is refreshing because often it isn’t, and you’re told ‘this is what you’re wearing,’” she shared.
“For Apple, the wardrobe is predominantly black and fitted, but it’s not designed for the male gaze; it’s for her own empowerment. You can really see the distinction… it’s not about seeking attention, but about establishing boundaries, which I think is fantastic.”
Reinhart is also known for her roles in the television pilot for Scientastic! and films like Lilith, Not Waving But Drowning, The Kings of Summer, Gibsonburg, Forever's End, Miss Stevens, and The Good Neighbor.
She gained fame portraying Betty Cooper in the teen drama series Riverdale, which is based on Archie Comics. Initially, the series creator Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa had sought Kiernan Shipka for the character after witnessing her performance in Mad Men.
Next, Reinhart will be featured in The Love Hypothesis, a romantic comedy film based on the novel by Ali Hazelwood. The film, directed by Claire Scanlon and written by Sarah Rothschild, also stars Tom Bateman and Jaboukie Young-White.
Point of View
I find Lili Reinhart's experience crucial in highlighting the ongoing issues of body image and the treatment of women in the entertainment industry. Her candidness reflects the need for an environment where all artists feel respected and empowered, especially within female-driven narratives.
NationPress
22 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Lili Reinhart say about her experience with the director?
Lili Reinhart recounted how a male director told her to 'suck in your stomach' during filming, which she found to be a toxic remark.
What is Forbidden Fruits about?
In Forbidden Fruits, Lili Reinhart stars as Apple, the leader of a witchy cult navigating challenges within their group.
What did Reinhart feel about working on a female-centric set?
Reinhart expressed that it was an empowering experience, emphasizing collaboration over directives.
What upcoming projects does Reinhart have?
Lili Reinhart will appear in The Love Hypothesis, a romantic comedy based on Ali Hazelwood's novel.
Who did Lili Reinhart portray in Riverdale?
She played the character Betty Cooper in the series Riverdale, based on Archie Comics.
