The phrase "" describes the exploitative practice where individuals in positions of power, typically in the entertainment industry, demand sexual favors from job seekers in exchange for career advancement. While often associated with historical Hollywood, this remains a significant contemporary issue involving legal, ethical, and safety concerns across various professional sectors. The Reality of the Casting Couch

: Demanding sexual activity as a condition for employment is illegal and classified as sexual harassment or assault under various laws, regardless of whether the victim "consented" under pressure.

: Prominent figures like Susan Sarandon, Thandie Newton, and Ranveer Singh have shared experiences of facing these predatory demands.

: Exploitative "interviews" also occur in corporate environments and other industries where power imbalances are prevalent. Exploitation in the Digital Age