E. Jean Carroll is sharing her journey and insights in her new memoir, “Not My Type,” which delves deep into her legal battle against former President Donald Trump regarding allegations of sexual assault. Carroll’s book not only recounts the details of the 1996 incident but also addresses the societal challenges she faced during her fight for justice, particularly as an 80-year-old woman.
In 2023, a jury found Trump liable for sexually abusing and defaming Carroll, a significant step in her quest for accountability after she first disclosed the assault allegations in 2019. Carroll’s memoir sheds light on her strategic choices during the trial, including how she altered her appearance to challenge perceptions that an older woman was not a credible victim. She recounted an important moment with her lawyer Robbie Kaplan and jury consultant Reiko Hasuike, where they discussed the biases jurors might hold regarding attractiveness and credibility.
To help the jury envision her as she appeared at the time of the assault, Carroll sought the expertise of her original stylist, Lisa Corvelli, to recreate the iconic 1996 bob hairstyle. This decision stemmed from pre-trial assessments that indicated jurors may struggle to believe her account due to her age. Corvelli successfully replicated the hairstyle, allowing Carroll to present herself in a way that challenged stereotypes about victims.
Carroll’s narrative pushes back against the notion that a woman’s worth is tied to her appearance, particularly in the context of her assault. Reflecting on how society often dismisses older women as being “unattractive enough to assault,” she reclaims her story with strength and resilience. “Not My Type” poses a significant commentary on the dynamics of power, victimization, and the societal narratives that shape women’s experiences.
The memoir is now available for readers to explore this powerful story and its implications on the ongoing conversation about sexual assault, justice, and the importance of believing victims regardless of age or appearance. Carroll’s determined stand illustrates that the pursuit of justice is a multifaceted struggle, one that can inspire others to share their own stories and seek accountability.