Lupita Nyong’o responds to rightwing criticism of The Odyssey: ‘Our cast is representative of the world’

Key points

• Oscar-winning actor Lupita Nyong’o has responded to far-right criticism of her role in Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey.
• In the big-budget film, out in July, the star plays Helen of Troy alongside cast members including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland and Zendaya.
• In a new interview with Elle, the 12 Years a Slave actor was asked about criticisms that have emerged from figures such as Elon Musk over a Black actor playing a mythical character.
• The disgraced tech billionaire accused Nolan of making a “DEI” hire because he wants awards.
• Nolan’s last film Oppenheimer, with a majority white cast, won seven Oscars including best picture.