A Hidden Gem in SoHo: Keeley Hazell’s Journey Through Life and Literature
Nestled on Mercer Street, a quaint café serves as a serene oasis amid the vibrant chaos of SoHo. With its shelves lined with books and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, it’s the perfect backdrop for a conversation with Keeley Hazell. The actress and author recently released her debut memoir, “Everyone’s Seen My Tits: Stories and Reflections from an Unlikely Feminist,” which hit the shelves on August 26.
The Unlikely Feminist
Keeley Hazell, once a Page 3 model, offers readers a candid look into her life, revealing far more than the sensational headlines of her early career. At 38, she reflects on her past with a blend of humor and vulnerability, addressing topics that range from revenge porn to class struggles and the complexities of her evolving feminism. Her memoir is not just a collection of celebrity anecdotes; it’s a deep dive into the emotional turmoil she faced, shaped by years of therapy and introspection.
The provocative title of her book, conceived in her late twenties, encapsulates the adolescent feeling of exposure and scrutiny. Hazell recalls the initial hesitation from her publisher regarding the title’s promotion on television, but she stood firm, believing it was the only fitting choice. “It’s everyone around you, and that’s what matters when you’re young,” she explains, emphasizing the weight of public perception during adolescence.
A Reflection on Class and Social Mobility
Hazell’s narrative is intricately tied to her upbringing in a working-class family in Grove Park, South East London. Her mother worked as a dinner lady, and her father was a window fitter; their separation when she was just 13 left a lasting impact. The memoir recounts her early experiences with money, including a shocking incident at 13 that forced her to confront the harsh realities of her socioeconomic status.
“I don’t think my modeling is a feminist act at all,” she asserts. “I think it’s an act of social mobility.” In a society where class barriers are deeply entrenched, Hazell’s journey through modeling was a means to escape the limitations imposed by her background. She highlights the stark differences between the UK and the US regarding class systems, noting that the American dream is often unattainable for those from working-class backgrounds in the UK.
Confronting Trauma and Stigmas
One of the most challenging aspects of Hazell’s memoir is her candid discussion of revenge porn. In 2007, her ex-boyfriend released a private sex tape, an experience that left her feeling violated and exposed. Revisiting this trauma for her book was not easy; she feared that discussing it would only reignite public interest in the incident. Yet, she recognized the importance of confronting such issues to foster understanding and change.
Hazell’s openness about her experiences aligns with a broader movement to destigmatize victims of image-based sexual abuse. She emphasizes that while anyone can be victimized, women disproportionately bear the brunt of this violation. “It’s just like a continued evolution of men finding ways to shame and suppress women,” she reflects, drawing parallels between historical and contemporary forms of exploitation.
Media Representation and Misconceptions
Hazell’s career has often been overshadowed by stereotypes associated with glamour modeling. When she was approached by Jason Sudeikis, co-creator of “Ted Lasso,” he expressed a desire to challenge the media’s portrayal of her. Although she initially hoped to play a character based on herself, the role ultimately went to Juno Temple, who comes from a privileged background. This decision left Hazell feeling conflicted, as she believed it misrepresented the realities of her life.
In her memoir, she articulates the tension between her real-life experiences and the fictional portrayal of Keeley Jones in “Ted Lasso.” “I don’t want it to be used in any sort of way unless it’s authentic,” she states, highlighting the importance of genuine representation in media.
A Message for All Readers
Despite her predominantly male fan base, Hazell hopes her memoir resonates with a broader audience. “If men can have a greater understanding, does that change things?” she muses, reflecting on the potential impact of her story. She embraces her past, recognizing that it has shaped her identity and choices.
As she concludes her thoughts, Hazell emphasizes the power of self-acceptance and the importance of reclaiming one’s voice. “I’ve reached a point now where I’m just owning it, embracing it, and I wouldn’t want to change it,” she shares, embodying the resilience and strength that define her journey.
In a world where narratives are often simplified or distorted, Keeley Hazell’s memoir stands as a testament to the complexities of identity, class, and empowerment. Through her candid storytelling, she invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and the societal structures that shape them.
