The cast of the fantasy Prime video series “Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” has faced racial backlash from fans since the show’s debut.
According to Complex, actor Ismael Cruz Córdova said that for the last two years, he has received “pure and brutal hate speech” in his direct messages almost every day.
“This is precisely why I pushed so hard for this position,” he said. “I felt capable of carrying that flame. I made sure my elf was the most Elven and magnificent since I anticipated this would happen.”
According to the Huffington Post, fans of the original film adaptations and novels are mostly to blame for the racist attacks.
“When Black and brown cast members on “Rings of Power” were announced earlier this year, they were met with immediate backlash based on the color of their skin. Claiming that the series is a misrepresentation of author J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, comments have emerged across social media rejecting the show’s diversity.”
“The Rings of Power” cast has since released a statement on Twitter condemning these racist attacks.
Here’s a roundup of interesting opinions, analyses, and editorials:
‘Lord Of The Rings’ Cast Takes Strong Stance Against Racist Backlash – Huffington Post
The Rings of Power is suffering a racist backlash for casting actors of colour – but Tolkien’s work has always attracted white supremacists – The Conversation
‘Rings of Power’ calls out racism against cast members of color – Reuters
The Rings’ OG Stars Plead For Inclusivity Amid Racist Backlash Against ‘The Rings Of Power’ – Deadline
Image credit: Getty Images
