Celebrities, particularly actors of colour, have reacted to Ed Skrein dropping out of Hellboy in order to avoid whitewashing the Asian character he was slated to play.
Backlash erupted when the white actor was cast in the role of Benjamin Daimio in the upcoming film, but Skrein, who claimed he was unaware the character was of ‘mixed Asian heritage’, announced he was backing out of the role on Monday with a lengthy statement on Twitter.
Celebrities were quick to commend Skrein for setting a precedent for future whitewashing offences.
“Respect to @edskrein for setting the example & reminding us progress requires sacrifice & representation is collective responsibility,” wrote Riz Ahmed (Star Wars: Rogue One, The Night Of), who is often outspoken about his experience as a British Pakistani and Muslim actor in Hollywood.
“Nothing but respect,” tweeted John Boyega, of Star Wars: The Force Awakens fame.
Star Trek actor John Cho added that he now wanted to work with Skrein.
Comedian Patton Oswalt commended Skrein, saying: “Someone give this guy tons of work.”
Director Ava DuVernay said she’s “now following” the actor, while Glee’s Harry Shum Jr tweeted, “Good on you, @edskrein.”
Hellboy creator and artist Mike Mignola thanked Skrein on Twitter for his decision not to go through with the role. “Very nicely done,” he wrote.
Whitewashing has been an issue in several recent Hollywood titles, including Doctor Strange, Aloha and Ghost in the Shell.
