The new "Romeo and Juliet" play sparks online uproar
19 April 2024 16:13
It all started the moment the cast for the stage version of Romeo and Juliet was announced. Hollywood actor Tom Holland was cast in the male lead and Juliet's role was given to newcomer African-American actress Francesca Amewudah-Rivers.
Internet users have not hidden their disappointment, and a significant number have even made racist comments targeting the actress. For now, Francesca Amewudah-Rivers has not issued an official response. Still, media reports suggest that the hate she has received is unusually high, even by social media standards. The scale of the hatred became apparent even before the play had its premiere.
The British actress felt so affected that, unsure how to handle the situation, she disabled the commenting option on her Instagram profile (referring to a post about the play "Romeo and Juliet").
"Romeo and Juliet" play
The new theatrical production directed by Jamie Lloyd will premiere on May 11 at London's Duke of York’s Theatre. The audience can enjoy the "Romeo and Juliet" duo until August 3. Tom Holland himself announced his participation in the play via Instagram.
- Beyond excited to announce our cast for Romeo and Juliet. I can’t wait to get started and I know we’ll create something really special together.l - he told reporters.
Francesca also shared the news. Unfortunately, the novice actress was met with a wave of hate. Beneath her post were vulgar comments and numerous insults. Casting an African-American actress in a Shakespearean role has provoked such negative reactions among some audiences that a few have called it the worst casting ever.
Hate directed at the actress
Some have been blunt in their criticism of the casting, while others argue that Francesca's appearance does not fit the traditional image of Juliet established over the years. They would prefer the role to go to Holland's real-life partner, Zendaya.
The producers from The Jamie Lloyd Company have stood by Amewudah-Rivers. In a formal statement, they highlighted, "Any abuse will not be tolerated and will be reported.".
"This must stop… Any abuse will not be tolerated and will be reported. Bullying and harassment have no place online, in our industry or in our wider communities" - the statement reads.
