Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin is being criticized for talking about gay actors while defending his decision to cast Javier Bardem to play ‘Desi’ in the film ‘Being the Ricardos.’
Aaron Sorkin Comments About Gay Actors Criticised -‘Talking About Shit He Doesn’t Fully Comprehend’
The primary reason why Aaron Sorkin has faced backlash is due to the fact that Javier is Spanish. Therefore, given that the character that Javier Bardem is portraying is Cuban, some have felt that an actual Cuban actor should have been cast for this role.
And yet, for Aaron, he sees it more as a case of talent as opposed to casting for the sake of filling up a quota. In an interview with the ‘Sunday Times Culture‘, he said: “You can act being attracted to someone, but can’t act gay or straight.
“So this notion that only gay actors should play gay characters? That only a Cuban actor should play Desi? Honestly, I think it’s the mother of all empty gestures and a bad idea.”
Regardless of what you think about Aaron’s position, his comments did not go down well with other actors. This included none other than actor Billy Eichner.
Aaron Sorkin felt that such a policy would end up discriminating against marginalized groups within the acting industry. And at a time where there is a greater emphasis on trying to ensure that diversity is respected, Billy felt that Aaron was out of touch.
Sorkin is implying that true diversity means freedom and not making rules about what sort of actor must play what sort of role.
In a post to his fans on Twitter, he remarked: “Completely ignorant of how Hollywood has treated its openly LGBTQ+ actors for a century. Talking about shit he doesn’t fully comprehend.
“Scared that Hollywood isn’t (entirely) ruled by straight men anymore. Go write yourself a “walk and talk” back into the past. Merry Christmas!”
It is not surprising that the response on social media was very divisive. People on both sides of the argument had a legitimate justification for expressing a particular viewpoint, especially since it is a question of whether talent or diversity should prevail.
In spite of all the flack that was coming his way, Aaron Sorkin continued to double down on his beliefs. His following comments confirmed as much: “It’s heartbreaking and a little chilling to see members of the artistic community re-segregating ourselves.”
So there you have it! Let us know what you think in the comment section down below. Remember to stay up to date with the latest news on TheOvertimer. Don’t forget to visit ScreenJuicer for great videos, news, and gameplay!
