Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has fired back at critiques surrounding her casting in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey, set to hit cinemas on July 17.
The Kenyan-Mexican star will play both Helen of Troy and her sister Clytemnestra in the epic film.
Speaking to Elle magazine, Nyong’o said she is not focusing on defending her casting. “The criticism will exist whether I engage with it or not,” she explained. “This is a mythological story. I’m very supportive of Chris’s intention with it, and with the version of this story that he is telling.”
The 43-year-old actress noted that the film’s casting reflects the scale of the story. “The Odyssey is so grand. It spans worlds. That’s why the cast is what it is. We’re occupying the epic narrative of our time,” she said.
Some social media users had raised questions, including racially tinged remarks, after the casting announcement. Nyong’o emphasized that her portrayal is rooted in the character’s strength and narrative depth rather than conventional beauty. “An actor can’t perform beauty. I want to know who a character is. What is beyond beauty? What is beyond looks?” she said.
Director Christopher Nolan praised Nyong’o’s performance, highlighting her poise and emotional depth. “The strength and the poise were so important to the character of Helen, and Lupita makes it look effortless,” Nolan said. “I was absolutely desperate for her to do the part.”
The film also features an ensemble cast including Matt Damon as Odysseus, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Elliot Page, Mia Goth, John Leguizamo, Jon Bernthal, Benny Safdie, and Travis Scott.
Nyong’o described taking on the role of Helen as a deep honour. “She is iconic. What more can I say? I’m so deeply honoured to be entrusted with her,” she added.
Universal Pictures will release The Odyssey into theaters on July 17, marking one of the most anticipated film releases of the year.
