Florence Pugh is no longer willing to tolerate unprofessional behaviour on film sets, making it clear that punctuality, respect for crew members and an absence of misogyny are non-negotiable when working on a production.
The Oscar-nominated actress discussed her changing approach to workplace dynamics in a new interview with ELLE. Pugh, 30, explained that years of experience in the film industry have made her more confident about protecting herself and taking a leadership role on set.
'Every time I work on a movie, I get more confident in the way that I can protect myself and the way that I can lead a film set, and just not stand for bullshit anymore,' she said.
The actress added that she would no longer accept bad attitudes or allow people to treat crew members disrespectfully. She also outlined three straightforward expectations for anyone working alongside her: 'Show up on time, don't be rude, don't be a misogynist.'
Experience Has Made Her More Confident as a Leader
Pugh explained that becoming more established in Hollywood has changed how she approaches professional relationships. Rather than accepting difficult working environments, she now feels increasingly comfortable setting boundaries and choosing the people with whom she wants to collaborate.
'You just get bolder and bigger and more confident with time, and you want to be around and work with the right people,' she said.
She also pointed out that negative behaviour rarely affects just one individual. When someone creates an uncomfortable atmosphere on set, the tension can spread throughout the production. The actress said she does not want to work in environments where people are rude to crew members or bring disruptive attitudes into the workplace.
Misogyny and Disrespect Matter Beyond the Camera
Pugh's comments also touch on issues that extend beyond ordinary workplace etiquette. Film productions depend on the cooperation of numerous departments, including cinematography, lighting, sound, costume, makeup and production management.
A lack of punctuality can disrupt carefully coordinated schedules, while disrespectful behaviour can undermine communication between departments. Misogyny presents a more serious concern, potentially affecting professional opportunities, workplace relationships and whether employees feel comfortable raising concerns.
Although Pugh did not identify a particular production or colleague in her interview, her emphasis on respectful working environments adds to ongoing discussions about accountability in Hollywood.
Pugh Speaks Out on Issues Affecting Women
The actress has also been increasingly vocal about issues involving women's rights and sexual violence.
In September 2026, Pugh criticised Instagram after her initial post addressing allegations surrounding the Cornell University sexual assault case was reportedly blocked. The allegations involved seven male students accused of drugging and sexually assaulting a female student. Pugh subsequently reposted her statement and challenged the platform's decision.
In her ELLE interview, she explained why she felt compelled to speak publicly about the case. 'Because I'm a woman who cares about women. I care about women I know, and I care about women I don't know,' she said. Pugh added that sexual violence should never become an issue society simply moves on from, stressing the importance of justice and accountability.
Pugh's Growing Career and Influence in Hollywood
Pugh's comments arrive during a particularly busy period in her career. She recently starred in Netflix's adaptation of East of Eden, while her upcoming film projects include Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Dune: Part Three and Avengers: Doomsday.
The actress, who received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in Little Women, has built a reputation for taking on varied roles across independent films and major studio productions.
Her message is straightforward: being talented or influential does not excuse someone from treating colleagues properly. For Pugh, arriving on time, respecting crew members and rejecting misogyny should be basic requirements of working in the film industry.
