Analysis: Unpacking the Controversy Surrounding Emma Corrin’s Armpit Hair

Patricia Grisafi, PhD, is a freelance writer whose work has been published in various well-known publications such as The Guardian, Salon, NBC, Los Angeles Review of Books, The Mary Sue, The Daily Dot, and others. The opinions expressed in this article are solely her own. For more viewpoints, check out CNN.

Three years ago, I made the decision to stop shaving my armpits. Why? Simply put, I was tired of dealing with constant irritation and ingrown hairs on my sensitive skin. Additionally, I wanted to embrace a new aesthetic - one that was less perfect, less groomed, and more natural.

Patricia Grisafi

Patricia Grisafi

Humans often cut and style their hair regularly. Whether it's microblading eyebrows for a fuller look or plucking them away, changing our body hair is a common part of expressing our personal style and uniqueness. Despite this, why is armpit hair still viewed as gross by so many people?

When it comes to armpit hair, the focus is mainly on women. Men have the freedom to choose what they want to do with the hair on their bodies. However, when a woman displays visible armpit hair in public, some people feel the need to comment on it.

Critiquing body hair in America is often a way to enforce gender norms and judge bodies that are seen as different or disruptive. It is not surprising then, that nonbinary individuals, who are becoming more visible in the media, may also face scrutiny and criticism for their body hair - whether it is present, absent, or in a certain location.

Take, for instance, the nonbinary and queer actor Emma Corrin, known for their award-winning portrayal of Princess Diana in "The Crown." They are currently gracing the cover of Harper's Bazaar for the June/July issue. In the photo, Corrin is seen sporting a beige tank top and briefs from Miu Miu. With their arm raised above their head, they confidently show off their armpit hair in a stylish and bold manner.

Rachel McAdams and Abby Ryder Fortson in the film adaptation of Judy Blume's "Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret"

The Harper's Bazaar June/July Freedom Issue featuring Emma Corrin.

From Harper's Bazaar/Instagram

Corrin has faced strong and sometimes toxic reactions since coming out in 2021. Initially using she/they pronouns, they later asked to be referred to exclusively with they/them pronouns in 2022. Despite expecting some backlash, Corrin expressed surprise at the extent of the vitriol. They commented on the regressive nature of the homophobic and transphobic reactions they have received, highlighting the challenges faced in what is supposed to be a progressive society.

Recently, Corrin's cover look sparked more negative reactions, this time focusing on their armpit hair. The Harper’s Bazaar Instagram account was flooded with unpleasant comments that were homophobic, body-shaming, and sexist. One user even went as far as to suggest that Corrin should shave their armpit hair for the sake of hygiene, failing to understand the evolutionary and biological purpose of body hair.

Another user mocked Corrin for their armpit hair and nonbinary identity, saying "Pits, pronouns. Pass." Some comments suggested that Corrin was seeking attention or trying to be edgy with their appearance, implying that it's strange for someone on a fashion magazine cover to promote a certain aesthetic or challenge beauty standards.

Rachel McAdams and Abby Ryder Fortson in the film adaptation of Judy Blume's "Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret"

Courtesy Lionsgate Films

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Many celebrities have faced criticism for showing visible body hair, including Canadian actress Rachel McAdams and model/actress Emily Ratajkowski. McAdams emphasized the importance of embracing her body in a 2023 photoshoot for Bustle, while Ratajkowski viewed body hair as a personal choice in a Harper’s Bazaar cover shoot from September 2019.

The focus on Emma Corrin’s visible armpit hair led to a gender-neutral discussion, with comments referencing their body as if it were a woman's. This raises questions about societal attitudes towards body hair and gender identity, highlighting the need for further progress in accepting nonbinary individuals and their choices.

It's not just about the hair under our arms. When I see my 6-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter with shoulder-length hair, my mother insists on only getting a fresh haircut for my son so his hair "doesn't get in his eyes." I understand what she's trying to say. There is fear when someone's hair doesn't match their expected gender norms.

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Visible armpit hair can provoke strong reactions that are influenced by societal ideas about gender. This choice goes beyond just hair; it symbolizes rebellion against norms and expectations. It can be unsettling for some, seen as a disruption that needs to be removed to maintain order.

We should all have the freedom to express ourselves as we choose, whether it's through our clothing or our body hair. Whether you let your armpit hair grow freely, wax your legs, keep your pubic hair, shave your big toe, or sport a quirky mustache, it's all about embracing individuality. Instead of ridiculing or trying to erase someone's unique choices, we should celebrate the diverse ways people express themselves.

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