‘You’re going to get hit on’: Pussycat Dolls star Carmit Bachar reflects on Me Too nightmare
Pussycat Doll Carmit Bachar says sexual harassment is all too common in Hollywood and that more women should speak up.
Confidential
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Risqué dance moves and “girl power” anthems helped cement The Pussycat Dolls as one of the best-selling girl groups of all time in the early 2000s.
For many devoted fans, the newly reformed group symbolises strength and women’s empowerment, which is why band member Carmit Bachar has voiced her support for the Me Too movement.
The American singer told Confidential that sexual harassment is common in Hollywood and, like others in the industry, she too has found herself in uncomfortable situations.
“I don’t think there’s a female who hasn’t experienced it in some form or fashion,” she said.
“Sure you’re going to get hit on or be in the studio and feel those energy vibes. It’s a choice of whether you number one, act on it. Number two, speak up and stand up to it or number three ignore it.
“I think now is a very crucial time and it’s been so incredibly courageous of the high-powered women in the industry to have spoken out, but so necessary.
“It’s become a very sensitive subject but I think it’s important. It’s not just the industry, it’s in every workplace, in the corporate world, it’s everywhere so I think it’s very important to speak on that and I’m 100 per cent behind the movement.”
Bachar reunited with her former bandmates Nicole Scherzinger, Ashley Roberts, Kimberly Wyatt and Jessica Sutta for the first time in 10 years last year.
She said one of the highlights of fame is being able to use her platform to raise awareness and help others.
“It’s always been the number one thing that I feel as an artist you have a responsibility to do … otherwise the entire thing is selfish,” she said.
“I was born with a cleft palate. So growing up, I went through a lot of surgeries and bullying.
“I’d always been involved with operation smile but when we started getting notoriety, I was able to take that to the next level.
“I’ve been an ambassador for over 13 years now. To be able to raise awareness is really important because everyone has something that they have overcome.”
Despite once struggling with her appearance, Bachar, who is the cover girl for the latest issue of Mr. Warburton magazine, is now more confident than ever.
“It was my own struggle that gave me character. It made me who I am today,” she said.
For more information on The Pussycat Dolls’ upcoming tour click here.