Recently, Saoirse Ronan’s comment on The Graham Norton Show went viral. For an important reason.

Eddie Redmayne recounted a safety tip (involving use of his mobile phone) which he had been given while learning self defence, and Paul Mescal joked: who has time to think about reaching for a phone when being attacked.

Ronan simply said, “It’s what girls have to think about all the time.” which at first silenced the room, and was then met by applause after she followed with, “Am I right ladies?”

Ronan subtly redirected the conversation by addressing the reality that many women are often on high alert to threats to their safety. It was a powerful reminder that even decent men like Mescal, may not fully grasp the weight women carry, around daily concerns about personal safety.

This resonated with so many because it highlighted the often unseen, ongoing vigilance that women maintain in spaces where they should feel safe. Like for example simply going for a walk.

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) isn’t just a “women’s issue” but a serious societal problem, impacting how women navigate public spaces and relationships

Saoirse’s remark was a gentle, but necessary reminder: even the good guys need to recognise and acknowledge the reality women live with daily.

While the clip may have gone viral, the discussion on The Graham Norton Show isn’t just a “viral moment”; it’s an important conversation starter. It invites everyone to consider how we can all be more mindful of the challenges women face and why it’s crucial for everyone, especially men, to be allies in creating a safer, more aware society.

What did you think about the clip?