Lupita Nyong'o Defends Casting as Helen of Troy Amid Online Racist Backlash

Lupita Nyong'o has been cast to play Helen of Troy – and her twin sister Clytemnestra – in Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation of Homer’s epic, titled “The Odyssey.” The movie, which also stars Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson and Zendaya, is scheduled for release in Brazil on 16 July.

Following the casting announcement, Nyong'o faced a wave of racist comments on social media, including remarks from commentator Matt Walsh and criticism from Elon Musk, who accused Nolan of lacking “integrity.” Other cast members such as Travis Scott and Elliot Page were also targeted with racist and transphobic remarks.

Nyong'o responded in an interview, rejecting the attacks and emphasizing the mythological nature of the story and the importance of a diverse cast. She said, “Society is still addicted to Euro‑centric beauty standards,” and affirmed her support for Nolan’s artistic vision without spending time defending herself against the backlash.