Anna Kendrick Donates Entire Salary From New Film Due To Disturbing True Crime Story—Here’s Why

Anna Kendrick donates her entire salary from her latest true-crime film, shining a light on victims’ voices and supporting survivors—her boldest move yet.

Sophia

• Published in Film & TV
• October 31, 2024

Anna Kendrick has made a striking choice with her latest film, Woman of the Hour, deciding to donate her entire salary due to the disturbing true story it portrays. Both director and star Kendrick wanted no personal profit from a narrative rooted in trauma and tragedy.

The film follows the chilling tale of Rodney Alcala, notoriously known as the "Dating Game Killer," who posed as a charming photographer while he committed a brutal killing spree in the 1970s. Alcala’s horrifying crimes—suspected to number over 100—make him one of America’s most infamous serial killers.

Kendrick plays Sheryl Bradshaw, a contestant on a dating show who chose Alcala as her “date” after he appeared as one of the show’s bachelors. Sensing something unsettling, Bradshaw later canceled their date, likely saving her life.

Rather than focusing on Alcala’s horrific acts, Kendrick chose to highlight the victims, honoring their lives and resilience amid the terror. Her decision to donate her salary to organizations like RAINN and the National Center for Victims of Crime demonstrates her commitment to using her platform to support victims of violent crime.

Kendrick’s dedication to humanizing these stories underscores her respect for those affected and her desire to promote awareness and healing.

1. Kendrick’s Bold Choice to Donate Her Earnings

Kendrick, deeply impacted by the subject matter, decided early on to donate her salary from Woman of the Hour to organizations that support victims of violent crime. In an interview with SiriusXM, she shared, “Once I realized there would be money exchanging hands, I asked myself, ‘Do you feel comfortable with this?’ And I didn’t.”

Her entire salary is being directed toward RAINN (the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) and the National Center for Victims of Crime, two organizations she hopes will provide much-needed support to individuals affected by similar traumas.

2. Shining a Light on Victims’ Voices

For Kendrick, this film was a unique opportunity to shift focus away from a notorious serial killer and onto the humanity of his victims. In an interview with Rolling Stone, she emphasized her intention to create a story that respects and honors those impacted by such heinous acts.

Her character, Sheryl, faces multiple instances of objectification, from creepy vibes on the dating show to harassment in other settings. Kendrick notes, “The question in the air for a lot of Sheryl’s story is, ‘Hang on, do you see me as human or something else?’”

Public Reactions and Personal Impact

Fans have praised Kendrick for her integrity and for donating her salary, with comments flooding social media, like one person’s remark: “Every day, I admire Anna Kendrick more.” Kendrick’s decision to spotlight victims instead of glorifying Alcala is a departure from typical true crime storytelling, marking Woman of the Hour as a standout project.

The actor’s openness about her own experiences with abuse also makes this story particularly resonant, as she uses her art and platform to promote healing and support for survivors.

In an industry that often profits from tragedy, Anna Kendrick's decision flips the script—turning true crime’s dark allure into a powerful act of compassion. By sharing the spotlight with victims and supporting change, Kendrick proves she's not just playing a role; she's rewriting what it means to tell their stories.

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Sophia