Lupita Nyong’o addresses racist online criticism over her casting in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, “The Odyssey.” She is set to play dual roles: Helen of Troy and her sister (described by some outlets as half-sister) Clytemnestra, in Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s ancient Greek epic. The backlash centers on arguments about the casting of a Black actress in roles associated with Ancient Greece, which commentators including Matt Walsh and Elon Musk have publicly criticized.
In interviews reported across multiple outlets, Nyong’o responds by characterizing the story as mythological and reaffirming her support for Nolan’s intention and approach. She also says she is not focusing her time on defending the casting, noting that such criticism exists regardless of whether she engages with it. Nyong’o adds that the film’s scope and epic nature are part of why the cast reflects the modern world.
Neither Nolan nor Universal is reported as having responded directly in these articles. “The Odyssey” is scheduled for release in July, with Matt Damon starring as Odysseus, alongside other ensemble cast members referenced by outlets.
