Whoopi Goldberg Slams Transphobic Criticism of Elliot Page’s Casting in “The Odyssey”: ‘Why Do You Care?’

Whoopi Goldberg has publicly defended Elliot Page against critics of his casting in the new film adaptation of The Odyssey, addressing a wave of backlash that has followed the announcement. Page, who is transgender and came out publicly in 2020, has been the subject of intense scrutiny, with some detractors expressing their disdain over his role in the film.

Goldberg, a co-host on the talk show The View, expressed her bewilderment at the level of negativity targeted towards Page and encouraged viewers to take a step back. “If you don’t want to see it, then don’t go see it,” Goldberg stated. “Why do you care who’s cast in it?” Her remarks highlight a broader concern about the pressure that public figures face in the entertainment industry, especially regarding representation.

The criticism seems to have intensified since conservative commentator Ben Shapiro labelled Page’s casting as “stupid.” Shapiro’s remarks, along with various online detractors, have ignited conversations in forums like X, where discussions are often heated and polarising. In light of this, Goldberg suggested that such critics are free to opt out of viewing the film entirely, reminding them, “We will be okay if you don’t go see it.”

Goldberg’s co-host on The View, Sarah Haines, also weighed in on the issue, noting that many of the negative comments about Page’s role are made by individuals who have openly admitted they have not watched the film. “There’s a unique ignorance to someone who comments on something they’ve never seen,” she said, emphasising the importance of informed discourse. Haines’ comments reflect a lingering frustration regarding the culture of commenting without knowledge or understanding.

The Odyssey, directed by Christopher Nolan, premiered in cinemas on 17 July and features a star-studded cast, including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, and Anne Hathaway. The film, based on Homer’s classic epic, follows Odysseus’s arduous journey home following the Trojan War, drawing upon themes of heroism and identity. Despite the backlash, the film has performed remarkably well at the box office, grossing over $264 million in its opening weekend.

In recent years, Page has been vocal about the positive changes his transition has brought to both his personal life and his career in acting. He stated that embracing his identity has made a significant difference in his ability to portray diverse roles authentically. His transition and openness about being transgender have contributed to a broader understanding of gender identity in Hollywood, indicating a shift towards greater inclusivity.

Furthermore, Page’s casting isn’t the only element of The Odyssey that has drawn criticism; Lupita Nyong’o faced backlash for her portrayal of Helen of Troy, facing detractors who challenged the decision to cast a Black woman in such a historically rich character. This reflects a wider trend within the industry, as audiences grapple with issues of race, gender, and representation in storytelling.

In conclusion, the discourse surrounding The Odyssey and Elliot Page’s involvement is a complex reflection of current societal attitudes towards diversity in entertainment. While critics have been vocal, the film’s successful box office performance suggests that a large audience is eager to engage with its themes, regardless of the casting decisions. Goldberg’s and Haines’s comments invite both critics and supporters to focus on the film itself rather than preconceived notions about its cast. As the conversation continues, it remains clear that the industry is moving forward, albeit with its share of challenges along the way.