The casting of Lupita Nyong’o in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey has become a lightning rod for online debate, with Elon Musk repeatedly weighing in on social media as the conversation around the project continues to grow.
The discussion first surfaced earlier this year when Elon Musk reacted to early casting rumors involving Lupita Nyong’o’s role as Helen of Troy in the film adaptation of Homer’s ancient epic. The project, directed by Christopher Nolan, has not yet been released, but it has already sparked strong reactions online due to its casting choices and modern reinterpretation of the classic story.
Elon initially criticized the decision, writing that “Chris Nolan has lost his integrity” in response to Lupita’s casting. He later escalated his comments, arguing that the film’s creative direction reflected broader industry standards tied to award eligibility and representation policies.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on May 15, Elon wrote, “Chris Nolan desecrated the Odyssey so that he would be eligible for an Academy Award.”
He also questioned inclusion standards in Hollywood, referencing the Academy’s diversity and representation requirements. The standards, which require films to meet at least two out of four criteria related to inclusion both on and off screen, have become a recurring talking point in industry debates.
Elon further criticized what he described as political influence in casting decisions, writing, “Who specifically is the asshole who added DEI lies to Academy Awards eligibility instead of it just being about making the best movie?”
The controversy widened when unverified rumors circulated online that actor Elliot Page might portray Achilles in the film. Elon dismissed those claims, calling them “one of the dumbest and twisted things I’ve ever heard.” It was later clarified that Page would actually portray Elpenor, not Achilles.
As Elon’s comments continued to circulate, they drew responses from other public figures. Actor Alec Baldwin publicly defended Lupita, sharing an image of the actress on Instagram alongside the message, “Dear Elon… but she IS the most beautiful woman in the world…Alec.”
Elon, however, doubled down on his position in a follow-up response, acknowledging Lupita’s talent and appearance but maintaining his criticism of the casting decision. He wrote, “I agree that she is beautiful, but casting a Black woman to play a White woman in a foundational work of European literature is no more right than casting a White man to play Shaka Zulu!”
Despite the ongoing online debate, neither Lupita Nyong’o, Nolan, nor Page have publicly responded to Musk’s comments.
