criticizes Christopher Nolan – Elon Musk has reignited the controversy surrounding The Odyssey after attacking filmmaker Christopher Nolan over casting Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy in the upcoming epic adaptation of Homer’s classic poem. The reaction follows the casting announcement that Nyong’o will play both Helen of Troy and her sister Clytemnestra in Nolan’s upcoming adaptation.

Conservative commentator Matt Walsh criticized the casting on X, arguing that Nolan avoided casting a white actress in the role due to fear of backlash. Musk responded directly to the post with a brief reply: “True. ” In another online exchange, Musk responded to a user accusing Hollywood filmmakers of “race swapping” historical characters.

“He wants awards,” Musk wrote, implying that Nolan’s decision was tied to awards-season politics and Academy inclusion standards. This is the latest in a series of public criticisms from Musk over Nolan’s adaptation. Earlier this year, after rumors surfaced about Nyong’o’s casting, the CEOs of Tesla and SpaceX claimed that the film was disrespecting Homer’s original description of Helen of Troy.

He also previously criticized reports that actor Elliot Page might appear in the film. The debate quickly spread across social media and television, with Whoopi Goldberg defending Nyong’o during an episode of The View.

Goldberg countered criticism of the actor’s appearance, saying that Nyong’o is widely considered one of the world’s most famous screen actors and fashion personalities. Shot entirely using IMAX 70mm cameras, The Odyssey stars Matt Damon as Odysseus alongside Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson and Charlize Theron.

This film is scheduled to release on 17 July 2026.