Is Aria Montgomery from Pretty Little Liars Meant to Represent a White Character?

The portrayal of characters in any media can often lead to discussions about representation and diversity. One such character is Aria Montgomery from the television series Pretty Little Liars. While Lucy Hale, who played Aria, has blonde hair and blue eyes, leading many fans to assume that the character was meant to be white, several details about Aria's original depiction challenge this assumption. Let's delve into the representation and character description of Aria Montgomery.

The Original Character Description

In the creators' notes and early promotional materials, Aria Montgomery was described with more racially diverse features. Specifically, the script and concept documents initially suggested that Aria would have black hair and electric blue eyes. However, the decision to cast Lucy Hale with blonde hair and blue eyes created a visual discrepancy from the original character description. These changes can be attributed to various factors, including casting prerequisites, actor availability, and creative vision.

Physical Representation vs. Character Identity

The decision to cast a white actress for Aria Montgomery raises an important discussion about the physical representation of the character versus the character's inherent identity. Aria is depicted as a protagonist with her own distinct personality and backstory, regardless of the color of her hair or eyes. Ultimately, Aria's character traits and her experiences on the show should be the focal point of discussion rather than her race.

Diversity and Inclusion in Media

The representation of characters with diverse physical traits and backgrounds is a matter of ongoing debate in the entertainment industry. While the original description of Aria suggests a more racially diverse character, the choice to cast Lucy Hale does not negate the importance of diversity and inclusion. The shallowness of focusing on hair and eye color rather than character depth can be problematic as it perpetuates a narrow view of diversity.

Conclusion: Aria Montgomery's Character as Beyond Physical Appearance

In conclusion, while Aria Montgomery is often perceived as a white character due to the physical appearance of Lucy Hale, the original character description was more racially diverse. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing debate around representation and the importance of focusing on a character's inherent traits, personality, and experiences beyond their physical appearance. The key takeaway should be the support for diversity and inclusion in media and the celebration of diverse characters regardless of how they are depicted visually.