Hannah Waddingham claps back at sexist comment at Olivier Awards in viral clip-Brooke Ivey Johnson-Entertainment – Metro

Hannah Waddingham shut down a sexist comment at the Olivier Awards (Picture: Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP)

Hannah Waddingham clapped back at an offensive comment at this year’s Olivier Awards, earning an outpouring of support online. 

The Ted Lasso actress, 49, hosted the theatre awards on Sunday night, dazzling audiences with her trademark poise and humour. 

Before the ceremony, Waddingham walked the steps outside the Royal Albert Hall, stopping for photographs and to speak with press.

After someone yelled out that she ‘show some leg,’ the star’s smile dropped and she immediately pointed out the sexism in the comment. 

She said: ‘Oh my god, you would never say that to a man. Don’t be a dick otherwise, I’ll move on. Don’t say “show me leg.”’

The actress then moved along, seeming to share some tense words with someone – possibly the person who had made the problematic comment – before turning away from the situation and sharing a hug with Michael Ball. 

The clip has already been viewed a quarter of a million times on X and fans have been quick to praise Waddingham’s backbone, applauding her justified response to the uncomfortable moment. 

@britishbatwit wrote: ‘I could not love her more! I absolutely LOVE that she stands her ground and will not let people treat her like crap.’ 

@Lenod agreed, posting: ‘She is amazing, what a role model.’

Waddingham hosted the evening’s ceremony (Picture: Getty Images)

@horticultrebaby seconded the sentiment that Waddingham is a great role model, writing: ‘Absolute queen behavior and a great example for younger girls in the industry about knowing their worth.’

@Writtenndust posted: ‘YES, her majesty. I hate that she had to have that interaction, but my GOD did she handle it well. Literal Queen. If I’m going to aspire to be anyone, it’ll be her. Always stand your ground, know your value and take no-one’s bulls***. #Respect.’

Waddingham also performed during the awards(Picture: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images For SOLT)

Waddingham has spoken out about the misogyny and double standards she’s faced as a woman before, telling Glamour: ‘When it comes to dealing with sexism, especially in my industry, I was on the receiving end of it mostly when I was modelling back in my 20s, with some of the nonsense that misogynistic male photographers would throw at me to put me in my place.’

She explained that despite push back, she insisted on being treated respectfully.

‘I called them out straight away – and they would then try to fight their corner, but I never let it go; I always called it out – but back then, it was at a time when people didn’t back you up. But I know that I’ve always given off an air of: “I will literally kill you if you treat me like that!”’

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : Hannah Waddingham ‘in talks’ for huge BBC reality TV show

MORE : Hannah Waddingham asks fellow celebrity to ‘get it right’ after name mistake

Entertainment – MetroRead More