Home / Arts and Entertainment / Lupita Nyong'o Addresses 'Odyssey' Racist Backlash
Lupita Nyong'o Addresses 'Odyssey' Racist Backlash
21 May
Summary
- Lupita Nyong'o will portray Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra in Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey.
- Nyong'o defends casting, calling it a mythological story representative of the world.
- The film, releasing July 17, features a diverse star-studded ensemble cast.

Lupita Nyong'o has responded to racist critiques concerning her casting in Christopher Nolan's adaptation of Homer's The Odyssey. The Kenyan-Mexican actress, aged 43, is set to embody both Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra.
Nyong'o emphasized that The Odyssey is a mythological story, and she supports director Christopher Nolan's interpretation. She highlighted that the film's cast reflects a global representation. Nolan, 55, praised Nyong'o's portrayal of Helen, describing her poise as effortless and expressing his strong desire for her to take the role.
When asked about Helen's legendary beauty, Nyong'o stated that an actor's focus is on understanding the character beyond physical appearance. She felt deeply honored to play the iconic role of Helen. Universal Pictures is scheduled to release The Odyssey on July 17.