A Controversial Legacy

Marlee Matlin recently revealed that the backlash she faced after disclosing the abuse she suffered at the hands of William Hurt has only intensified following his death in 2022. Matlin, who detailed her experiences in her 2009 memoir *I'll Scream Later*, discussed the complexities of public reaction during an interview with *The Guardian*.

Navigating Social Media Turmoil

"On social media, I had to confront both sides of the conversation," Matlin noted, alluding to those who dismissed her claims against Hurt, as well as supporters who defended her. She expressed a strong desire not to be defined by others amid this turmoil, stating, "They were trying to define me, and I would have none of that." Matlin ultimately chose to remove herself from the heated discussions, prioritizing her peace over engagement.

Reflections on Awards and Abuse

Reminiscing about the time of her Oscar win for *Children of a Lesser God*, Matlin shared how her success was overshadowed by fear. "I was afraid as I walked up the stairs to get the Oscar... because I knew, in my gut, that he wasn't that happy," she admitted. Hurt had already begun abusing her during their tumultuous relationship.

A Complicated Relationship

The documentary *Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore* delves deeper into Matlin's life and the complexities of her relationship with Hurt. Premiering at Sundance in January, the film features her reflections on Hurt’s response to her allegations, where he claimed both had apologized and moved on. Matlin provides an honest account of her struggles with addiction, which Hurt suggested she seek treatment for, recounting valuable lessons learned during rehab.

Healing and Moving Forward

"There were a lot of things I learned in rehab that pointed to things not being right," she revealed, emphasizing that the emotional and physical abuse she endured was crucial to her journey of healing. The documentary, set to be released in theaters nationwide this summer, promises to offer audiences an intimate look at her resilience.

A Tribute to Strength

As Matlin navigates the discussions surrounding Hurt's legacy, she remains a powerful voice for survivors of abuse, inspiring many with her courage to speak out. Her story is not just about pain; it’s a testament to survival and the ongoing journey toward healing.