May 22, (THEWILL) — Oscar-winning actress, Lupita Nyong’o, has addressed criticism over her role as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film “The Odyssey”, set for release on July 17, 2026.
Nyong’o stars alongside Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, and Zendaya, playing Helen, the legendary figure regarded as the most beautiful woman in Greek mythology, as well as her half-sister Clytemnestra.
Her casting sparked online controversy, with critics arguing that a Black actress should not portray a traditionally white mythical character.
Matt Walsh, host of “The Matt Walsh Show”, commented, “Not one person on the planet actually thinks that Lupita Nyong’o is ‘the most beautiful woman in the world’” and called Nolan a “coward” for casting her instead of a white actress.
Elon Musk echoed the criticism, claiming Nolan chose Nyong’o because he “wants the awards”.
Nyong’o addressed the backlash in an interview with Elle Magazine: “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. Our cast is representative of the world. I’m not spending my time thinking of a defence. The criticism will exist whether I engage with it or not.
“I want to know who a character is. What is beyond beauty? What is beyond looks? That’s the thing about doing such a well-known text. The investigation starts with the pages you’re given”, she stated.
Reflecting on the scale of the project, Nyong’o said, “It’s quite something to be a part of The Odyssey, because it is so grand. It spans worlds. So that’s why the cast is what it is. We’re occupying the epic narrative of our time.”
Nolan praised Nyong’o’s performance, stating, “The strength and the poise were so important to the character of Helen. And Lupita makes it look effortless.”
High-profile supporters have also defended her casting. Whoopi Goldberg told The View, “You don’t have to actually go to the movie… I would suggest looking in a mirror if you have any concerns about people’s looks.”
Alec Baldwin added on Instagram, “Dear Elon … but she IS the most beautiful woman in the world.”
Nyong’o, known for films like “Us”, “Black Panther”, and “A Quiet Place: Day One”, said she is focusing on the depth of her roles rather than the criticism.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
