Hollywood actress and producer Reese Witherspoon along with writer Harlan Coben presented a new thriller Gone Before Goodbye, which sparked a heated reaction online. Users accused the actress of "romanticizing Russia" and using the image of Russian oligarchs for commercial effect.
The plot of the book revolves around military surgeon Maggie McCabe, who, after a personal tragedy, gets the chance to revive her career. She agrees to work for Russian magnate Oleg Ragarovich — an influential but dangerous oligarch from Rublyovka. His request for a cosmetic surgery for his mistress seems superficial, yet it conceals a multitude of secret plans.
In a review by the Los Angeles Times, it is noted that the authors delve into a world of luxury, power, and the desire to create "ageless" superhumans. Despite the artistic intent, following the book's announcement on Reese Witherspoon's Book Club page on Instagram, a wave of criticism erupted.
Social media users left comments:
- "When will it stop being fashionable to romanticize Russia?"
- "Did you really choose a country that commits crimes daily as the backdrop for your book?"
- "Russia? What planet are you on, Reese?"
Many criticized the actress for choosing "aesthetics over ethics," hinting at the use of the image of Russian billionaires for commercial success. As of now, there has been no official comment from Witherspoon.
Leave a comment