Actress Patricia Clarkson discusses her role as Lilly Ledbetter, the iconic figure behind the fair pay act, as the film's release coincides with a significant political era.
In the shadows of a contentious political landscape, the biopic "Lilly," based on the life of equal pay advocate Lilly Ledbetter, hits theaters. With champions of her cause either gone or out of power, the movie serves as a potent reminder of the relentless battles for justice and equality.
Sprinkled throughout the film are moments featuring giants of the equality movement, such as the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former first lady Michelle Obama, and former President Barack Obama. These snippets from the past echo the unshakable support Ledbetter received from figures who championed her cause.
One lesser-known yet vital character is Jocelyn Samuels, portrayed by Deirdre Lovejoy. Back then, Samuels was an executive at the National Women’s Law Center, guiding Ledbetter through the corridors of Congress as they pushed for change. Now, Samuels finds herself in a battle against President Donald Trump, having been one of two Democratic commissioners unceremoniously fired from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. She is fighting back in a lawsuit.
Ledbetter, who passed away in October at the age of 86, didn't live to see Trump all but stifle Democratic hopes for quick passage of the more comprehensive Paycheck Fairness Act, which she advocated for and would have strengthened the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's ability to investigate pay discrimination.
Academy Award-nominee Patricia Clarkson, who stars as Ledbetter in "Lilly," dives headfirst into the narrative's political depths. At the film's New York City premiere in May 2025, she shared the red carpet with Clinton, who made a surprise appearance. Clarkson often recalls the emotional moment when she learned she would play Ledbetter, bringing a tear to her mother's eye—the late former Louisiana state legislator Jackie Clarkson.
During an interview with the Associated Press, Clarkson acknowledged the political landscape as a poignant backdrop for the film. However, she emphasized the importance of remembering Ledbetter's tenacity—the woman who, for most of her life, was an unassuming working mother until she uncovered pay discrimination within her own workplace and fought to change it.
Q: How did you prepare for the role without meeting Lilly Ledbetter?
A: I found that I imprint easily on people, so meeting Lilly might have influenced my performance. Instead, I focused on bringing the best version of myself—emotionally, physically, and intellectually—to the role. I wanted to honor Ledbetter's resilience, the emotional struggles she faced, and the struggles she endured to fight injustice.
Q: Did you delve into her writings or speeches to prepare?
A: I looked at some of her writings and speeches to gain insight, but my primary focus was on Ledbetter's emotional journey. Her emotional life was crucial, as change is often hard, and those who fight for justice are often tested. I didn't care about mimicking her mannerisms; I just wanted to capture her emotional struggles.
Q: Did you anticipate how different the political climate would be at the time of the movie's release?
A: I had dreams of being on a press tour alongside Lilly, but unfortunately, that wasn't meant to be. However, I believe that this might be the ideal time for the movie's release because it serves as a reminder that change is possible and achievements can be made even in challenging times.
Q: Does the film's political climate make it more difficult to release or receive?
A: Lilly wasn't truly a deeply political person, and I believe she would have spoken at any convention if asked. Equal pay is equal pay, regardless of political labels. Although the Democratic party has embraced her, "Lilly" reminds people that change is achievable and that every individual has a role to play in creating equity.
Q: How are "Lilly" and your recent role in "She Said" related?
A: Both roles are interconnected in their determination to shed light on injustice—the stories of courageous women standing against powerful oppressors. Working in Hollywood since 1985, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by women in the industry, including pay disparities and unacceptable behavior. Both films highlight the need for change in our society and serve as a testament to the strength and determination of women who dare to challenge the status quo.
Q: What one thing do you want audiences to take away about Lilly?
A: I want people to be inspired by Lilly's resilience. She stood up against all odds and called attention to a crucial issue, proving that one person can make a difference. Watching her story unfold should fill every audience member with pride as an American, reminding us all that we have the power to create positive change.
- In the political landscape, the biopic "Lilly" serves as a reminder of the ongoing battles for justice and equality, despite changes in government.
- Jocelyn Samuels, portrayed in the film as a guiding figure for Lilly Ledbetter, now finds herself in a battle against President Donald Trump, making her a character essential to the film's political context.
- Academy Award-nominee Patricia Clarkson prepared for her role by focusing on Lilly Ledbetter's emotional journey, emphasizing the importance of capturing the emotional struggles Ledbetter faced during her battle for justice.
- Clarkson believes that the movie's release during a challenging political climate is ideal, as it serves as a reminder that change is achievable and that every individual plays a role in creating equity.
- Both "Lilly" and Clarkson's recent role in "She Said" are interconnected in their determination to shed light on injustice, highlighting the need for change in society and serving as a testament to the strength and determination of women who dare to challenge the status quo.
