In the recent Robert Zemeckis-directed adaptation of Roald Dahl's famous novel The Witches, Anne Hathaway’s villainous character, known as the Grand Witch, has missing fingers. Many people with disabilities pointed out that she appears to have Ectrodactyly, a limb abnormality that’s commonly referred to as “split hand.”
Advocates feared that portraying villains with physical defects can perpetuate stereotypes that disabilities are abnormal or scary. Paralympic athlete Amy Marren said she was “disappointed” in Warner Bros and questioned if there “was there much thought given as to how this representation of limb differences would affect the limb difference community.”
A spokesperson for Warner Bros said the studio was “deeply saddened to learn that our depiction of the fictional characters in The Witches could upset people with disabilities.” It stated, “In adapting the original story, we worked with designers and artists to come up with a new interpretation of the cat-like claws that are described in the book. It was never the intention for viewers to feel that the fantastical, non-human creatures were meant to represent them. This film is about the power of kindness and friendship. It is our hope that families and children can enjoy the film and embrace this empowering, love-filled theme.”
Soon after Warner Bros’ apology, the star of the film Hathaway took to Instagram and addressed the issue. Hathaway also presented an apology and even highlighted her ignorance regarding limb differences. “I have recently learned that many people with limb differences, especially children, are in pain because of the portrayal of the Grand High Witch in The Witches. Let me begin by saying I do my best to be sensitive to the feelings and experiences of others - not out of some scrambling PC fear but because not hurting others seems like a basic level of decency we should all be striving for.”
She continued, “As someone who really believes in inclusivity and really, really detests cruelty, I owe you all an apology for the pain caused. I am sorry. I did not connect limb difference with the Grand High Witch when the look of the character was brought to me. If I had, I assure you this never would have happened.”
The Princess Diaries actor concluded by saying, “I particularly want to say I’m sorry to kids with limb differences. Now that I know better, I promise I’ll do better. And I owe a special apology to everyone who loves you as fiercely as I love my own kids: I’m sorry I let your family down.”
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