Survivor Stories: Melissa Benoist

Photo credits: BBC

“I am a survivor of domestic violence or intimate partner violence,” Melissa Benoist, Supergirl actress, said in a candid Instagram video in 2019. Behind the strength and optimism she projects on screen, she revealed the manipulation, fear, and escalating violence she faced in private.

While addressing fans directly from her home, the actress explained that she had “never thought” she would share a story like this. But speaking out, she said, felt necessary. If telling the truth could help even one person recognize the signs or find the courage to leave, it was worth the vulnerability.

Benoist described how the abuse didn’t begin physically. At first, it was subtle and controlling. Her partner grew jealous of her work, especially scenes that required kissing or flirting. To keep the peace, she turned down auditions and job offers, shrinking her own career so he wouldn’t feel threatened. At the time, she framed it as love, but later realized these compromises were “red flags” that marked the beginning of something darker.

“Each red flag followed a very clear path on things becoming violent,” she said.

The behavior soon escalated. What started with a smoothie thrown in her face progressed to being pinned down, slapped, and punched. She recalled being dragged by her hair, shoved into walls, and choked. At one point, she learned to lock herself in rooms to feel safe, only to stop when the doors were broken down.

“I learned not to value any of my property,” she said. “I learned not to value myself.”

Like many survivors, Benoist remembered the confusing aftermath of each incident, including tears, apologies, and promises to change. Arguments ended with guilt and reconciliation, trapping her in a cycle of cruelty and affection. She covered up the abuse, lying to friends and loved ones to protect him.

The turning point came during a particularly violent attack when a phone struck her face, tearing her iris, nearly rupturing her eyeball, and breaking her nose. The injury permanently affected her vision. In that moment, she realized the relationship could cost her more than just fear, but also her life.

Soon after, she confided in a friend for the first time. The relief was immediate, and with support, she began the slow process of leaving.

“Leaving was not a walk in the park. It’s a process,” she said.

Benoist’s story shows that strength, beauty, and public success cannot shield someone from abuse. By sharing her story, she encouraged others to seek help and remember that “You can and deserve to live a violence-free life.”

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Jurisview Journal is a student-led blog that publishes biweekly articles about interesting criminal cases. Our aim is to shed light on cases that require justice or further exploration and provide input on controversial legal events. We also publish infographics to help victims or those who wish to educate themselves on legal issues. 

In this series, Survivor Stories, we explore and share the stories of survivors of violence and crime. Through this, we advocate for justice and more attention to victims such as the survivors we feature.