Cara Delevingne recalls ‘no safety’ during early modelling career

Cara Delevingne has opened up about the challenges she faced early in her modelling career, saying the fashion industry offered "no safety" and was marked by a troubling culture before the MeToo movement.

The 33-year-old model and actress, who has been sober for four years after overcoming addiction and mental health struggles, admitted she once found it difficult to sympathize with her own experiences because she believed she had chosen life in the spotlight.

Speaking to The Sunday Times Culture magazine, Delevingne said she used to dismiss her own pain, telling herself to "grow up" because she felt fortunate to have a successful career.

Looking back, however, she believes she entered the industry during a particularly difficult period, describing an environment where young models often relied only on one another for support while navigating what she called a "sexual misconduct vibe" involving older photographers.

The Only Murders in the Building star also reflected on her struggles with drugs and alcohol, saying she doesn't believe female actors are given the same grace as men when dealing with personal issues.

Delevingne credited stepping away from the spotlight and focusing on her well-being with changing her life.

She also praised her partner, Minke, for supporting her recovery, adding that although she initially feared people would forget her, taking time away allowed her to rebuild her health, relationships and sense of self.