By Our Correspondent

National News – Lupita Nyong’o has defended her casting as Helen of Troy in The Odyssey after criticism erupted online over the role.

The actress responded to backlash from critics, including Elon Musk, who questioned the decision to cast a Black actress in the iconic role from Greek mythology.

Nyong’o, speaking during an interview with Elle magazine, said the movie is a “mythological story” and insisted the cast reflects the diversity of the modern world.

She explained that director Christopher Nolan intentionally created a globally representative cast for the upcoming epic adaptation of Homer’s ancient poem.

The controversy began after details of the film’s casting became public last week.

Musk accused Nolan of disrespecting Greek culture and compared the casting choice to portraying African historical figures with actors from different racial backgrounds.

He later intensified the criticism by calling Nolan “an anti-White racist” in a post on X.

Nyong’o, however, refused to engage deeply with the attacks, saying criticism would continue whether she responded or not.

The actress added that being part of The Odyssey is significant because the story “spans worlds” and carries universal themes that resonate across cultures.

The film, scheduled for release in cinemas across the United States and the United Kingdom on July 17, also stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya and Charlize Theron.

Nolan’s latest project has already generated global attention due to its star-studded cast and fresh interpretation of the legendary Greek tale.