Maitland Ward Pigeonholed Better -

In 2017, Ward joined the cast of Disney Channel's "Andi Mack," playing the role of Tanya, a confident and outgoing friend of the show's main character. While the show was a hit with young audiences, Ward's character was often relegated to comedic relief, reinforcing the "funny friend" trope that had followed her since her early days.

: Ward describes her post-Disney years in Hollywood as a "crazy, oppressive time" where women were expected to be "a virgin and a sex pot all at once" but never fully embrace either. Authenticity vs. Industry Standards maitland ward pigeonholed better

to maintain a specific image, often requiring her to try on lingerie in front of male executives to "test" her look, which she described as an uncomfortable and dehumanizing experience. In 2017, Ward joined the cast of Disney