'I worry everything’s being dumbed down...' Matt Smith criticises excessive trigger warnings
'House of the Dragon' star Matt Smith worries that the "policing of stories" is having a negative effect on television and film.
Matt Smith has voiced his concerns over the proliferation of trigger warnings, suggesting they may be stifling important storytelling.
In an interview with The Times interview, the former 'Doctor Who' actor expressed frustration over what he sees as an overreach in content warnings, which he believes could undermine the depth and impact of artistic works.
The 'House of the Dragon' star said: "Too much policing of stories and being afraid to bring them out because a climate is a certain way is a shame.
"It’s OK to feel uncomfortable or provoked while looking at a painting or watching a play, but I worry everything’s being dialled and dumbed down.”
Smith’s remarks sparked a lively discussion on social media, with users weighing in from both sides of the debate.
On X (formerly Twitter) one user agreed with the actor, replying to a post about the matter, “Absolutely, it’s a complex discussion with valid points on both sides. Matt Smith’s view adds an interesting angle to the ongoing debate about trigger warnings and their effect on storytelling.”
Another added, “A nuanced perspective. While sensitivity is important, we shouldn’t let it silence important voices and stories.”
However, not everyone agrees with Smith’s perspective. Some critics argue that trigger warnings play a vital role in ensuring that audiences, particularly those with trauma or PTSD, are not caught off guard by potentially distressing content.
One X user countered: "Now who decided trigger warnings meant policing stories and watering them down? It’s literally just a gentle reminder that they have a potentially triggering topic.”
Another emphasised, “Matt, some people have PTSD and don’t want to encounter their triggers without warning. Matt, please.”
By Tylar Valentine
