Actress Lupita Nyong'o has defended her casting as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan's upcoming film The Odyssey, following online criticism over her race in the mythological role.
The Oscar-winning actress is set to portray the legendary Greek figure whose beauty sparked the Trojan War.
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Her selection prompted pushback from critics, including tech billionaire Elon Musk, who questioned the casting of a Black actress for the character.
Nyong'o Responds to Backlash
Speaking to Elle, Nyong'o addressed the controversy surrounding the production's diverse cast. She expressed full support for Nolan's vision.
"I'm very supportive of Chris's intention with it and with the version of this story that he is telling.
Our cast is representative of the world," Nyong'o said.
She emphasized that she is not focusing on countering negative online commentary. "I'm not spending my time thinking of a defence.
The criticism will exist whether I engage with it or not," she added.
The actress noted that the scale of the classic Homeric poem justifies a broad international ensemble.
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"It's quite something to be a part of The Odyssey, because it is so grand. It spans worlds.
So that's why the cast is what it is. We're occupying the epic narrative of our time," Nyong'o said.
The online debate intensified after the official casting announcement last week. Musk targeted Nolan on social media, claiming the choice disrespected Greek heritage.
He compared the casting to cross-racial casting in historical African narratives.
"I agree that she [Nyong'o] is beautiful, but casting a Black woman to play a White woman in a foundational work of European literature is no more right than casting a White man to play Shaka Zulu!"
Musk wrote.
He continued his commentary on Friday, calling Nolan an "anti-White racist." Nolan has not responded to the complaints.
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The film also stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron, and is scheduled for release on July 17, 2026.
