Lupita Nyong'o responds to Elon Musk's attack: I will not justify my participation in "The Odyssey"“

Written by Ziad Abdel Fattah: 

The actress responded Kenyan Mexican Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong'o has responded to criticism of her participation in Christopher Nolan's film "The Odyssey," asserting that she refuses to be distracted by the attack targeting her selection to portray a legendary figure.

Nyong'o stars in the film, scheduled for release next July, as Helen of Troy, in a huge production featuring an elite group of Hollywood stars, including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, and Zendaya.

Elon Musk criticizes the choice of a black actress

Criticism came from some figures considered to be on the right, including businessman Elon Musk, who questioned the choice of a black actress for the role, considering that the goal was to win awards, in reference to the trends of the film industry.

In an interview with Elle magazine, Nyong'o confirmed her full support for Nolan's vision, saying: "This is a legendary story, and I believe in his intention to present it in this way, because the cast reflects the world, and I'm not going to waste my time justifying my position.".

She added: “The criticism will continue whether I respond to it or not, so I prefer to focus on the work itself,” noting that her participation in the film represents an important artistic experience within “an epic narrative that expresses our era.”.

Wave of reactions to Elon Musk

Musk’s remarks sparked a wave of reactions within the entertainment industry, with comedian Jimmy Kimmel mocking his comments and urging him to ”stay in his lane,” while actor Alec Baldwin defended Nyong’o, describing her as “the most beautiful woman in the world.”.

Journalist Whoopi Goldberg also criticized Musk's remarks, asserting that he "is not obliged to watch the film," and urging him to stop judging others.

Nyong'o's roles are limited to enslaved women.

During the interview, Nyong'o touched on her artistic career, noting that many of the roles offered to her after winning the Oscar were limited to enslaved women, which she described as "frustrating, but not surprising.".

She affirmed her commitment to continuing her artistic career despite the criticism, saying: “I cannot waste my time thinking about those who do not like me. I will continue working with those who believe in me.”.

It is worth noting that the film “The Odyssey” is one of Nolan’s biggest productions, with a budget of up to $250 million, and is scheduled to be released in theaters worldwide on July 17.