Marty Supreme breakout actress Odessa A’zion is taking to social media after backlash stemming from her casting in A24‘s Deep Cuts.
She announced Wednesday night that she would be exiting the role of Zoe just 48 hours after her casting announcement.
Odessa A’zion Exits Deep Cuts
A’zion posted her exit on Instagram Stories, telling her fans and followers.
Concerns circled the possible whitewashing of Deep Cuts, a film adaptation of Holly Brickley’s novel. Odessa A’zion was cast to play Zoe Gutierrez, who is described in the book as half Mexican and half Jewish.
This is what she posted on Instagram Stories:
“Guys!! I am with ALL of you and I am NOT doing this movie,” the actress wrote. “Fuck that. I’m OUT.” She then elaborated on the decision: “THANK YOU guys for bringing this to my attention. I AGREE WITH EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU! This is why I love you guys. I’m so sorry that this happened. It is SO important for me to let you in on how it all went down: I went in for Percy, but was offered Zoe instead and instantly said yes! I’m so pissed y’all, I hadn’t read the book and should have paid more attention to all aspects of Zoe before accepting…and now that I know what I know???”
“I’d never take a role from someone else that’s meant to do it. That SHOULD do it! That’s not me. There are a plentitude of people more than capable of playing this role and I am NOT one of them,” Odessa A’zion finished. “I can’t wait to see who it ends up being.”
Role in the Film
Odessa A’zion was set to play Zoe Gutierrez, starring alongside Drew Starkey and Cailee Spaeny.
The film is a love story set in the 2000s, focusing on two music-obsessed 20-somethings as they follow ambition, belonging, and adulthood. Spaeny is playing music critic Percy, while Starkey is a songwriter and love interest.
Guiterriez in the film is of Mexican heritage and is Jewish. While A’zion is Jewish, she is not Mexican. She originally auditioned for another character in the movie, but then was cast as Zoe.
Once the information about her character was revealed to her, though, A’zion realized it was a bad casting choice. Fans agree, stating Zoe should be played by a Latina actress in the film.
Behind the Scenes
Sean Durkin is directing Deep Cuts from his own script. He previously directed The Iron Claw and The Nest.
Durkin is producing alongside Eli Bush, Ronald Bronstein, Josh Safdie, Anthony Katagas, and Jordan Tappis. Blake Mills is listed for original music.
It’s important to note that Austin Butler and Saoirse Ronan were originally set to star in the film, but due to scheduling issues dropped out. Spaeny and Starkey took their places.
As of now, there is no replacement for A’zion.