The Last of Us Star Melanie Lynskey Inspires With New Clapback to Body Shaming

Actress Melanie Lynskey has taken Twitter by storm with her powerful and eloquent response to being body-shamed for her role on HBO’s The Last of Us.

Slight spoilers ahead for episode four of The Last of Us.

Melanie Lynskey made her debut in HBO’s The Last of Us — the television series based on the video game franchise which has taken over the internet. Lynskey has become a widely recognized and beloved actress for her work in cult classics like But I’m a Cheerleader and Coyote Ugly. In addition, the actress has recently found critical acknowledgment, receiving an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series due to her work on Yellowjackets.

Lynskey guest stars alongside Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey as Kathleen. Kathleen, who is not found in the video games, heads the group that now runs the QZ after toppling FEDRA. Her appearance in the fourth episode, “Please Hold to My Hand,” garnered massive support from fans online. 

I cannot express the excitement for the new character introduction in TLOU. @melanielynskey came in STRONG and slayed ep4 of #TheLastOfUs! I am obsessed with her performance as ruthless Kathleen. This show is getting better with each episode & can’t wait for the next Sunday 🤌🏻 pic.twitter.com/iCn2hfU87r

— Zofia Wijaszka (@thefilmnerdette) February 6, 2023

Despite this, some people were not pleased with the role, one of them being American Model, Adrianne Curry-Rhode. In a now-deleted Tweet, the model posted an image from Lynskey’s cover shoot for InStyle Magazine. The caption read: “her body says life of luxury…not post apocalyptic warlord.”

However, Lynskey did not let this seemingly irrelevant comment bring her down, clarifying in a tweet, “…this is a photo from my cover shoot for InStyle magazine, not a still from HBO’s The Last Of Us.” She then took the opportunity to point out her character’s background writing, “I am supposed to be SMART, ma’am.” Lastly, she swiftly quelled any rebuttal by stating, “I don’t need to be muscly. That’s what henchmen are for”. 

Firstly- this is a photo from my cover shoot for InStyle magazine, not a still from HBO’s The Last Of Us. And I’m playing a person who meticulously planned & executed an overthrow of FEDRA. I am supposed to be SMART, ma’am. I don’t need to be muscly. That’s what henchmen are for pic.twitter.com/YwkmkwUdOm

— Melanie Lynskey (@melanielynskey) February 8, 2023

Lynskey’s response has been praised for its no-nonsense approach. In a world of body-shaming, fans and observers alike are glad to have a strong advocate on their side.

You and your character are awesome! I love The Last of Us and love it even more because of your Kathleen. Such a dynamic and interesting role that you portray perfectly!

— Kailey Spear (@KaileySpear) February 8, 2023

Not only that, but in a separate Tweet, Lynskey went on to explain what drew her to the role of Kathleen and what it could mean for the future. Lynskey wrote, “I wanted her to be feminine, and soft-voiced, and all the things that we’ve been told are ‘weak’.” This drive came from the arbitrary criticisms society pins on women. Lynskey states: “Women, and especially women in leadership positions, are scrutinized incessantly.” Read the full thread of Lynskey’s insightful character takes and shoutouts here.

Women, and especially women in leadership positions, are scrutinized incessantly. Her voice is too shrill. Her voice is too quiet. She pays too much attention to how she looks. She doesn’t pay enough attention to how she looks. She’s too angry. She’s not angry enough

— Melanie Lynskey (@melanielynskey) February 8, 2023

She then took the time to thank The Last of Us Producers Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann for “…creating a truly new character. Someone I have never seen before. And for trusting me with her.” Lynskey then thanked the fans for their love and support, showing her inspiring conviction and kindness. Watch the trailer for HBO’s The Last of Us below.