Elon Musk slams Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ casting, claims Lupita Nyong’o was chosen because “he wants the awards”

Elon Musk has reignited controversy around The Odyssey after attacking filmmaker Christopher Nolan over the casting of Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy in the upcoming epic adaptation of Homer’s classic poem.

The backlash follows the casting announcement that Nyong’o will portray both Helen of Troy and her sister Clytemnestra in Nolan’s upcoming adaptation. Conservative commentator Matt Walsh criticised the casting on X, arguing that Nolan avoided casting a white actress in the role because of fears of backlash. Musk responded directly to the post with a brief reply: “True.”

In another exchange online, Musk reacted to a user accusing Hollywood filmmakers of “race swapping” historical characters. “He wants the awards,” Musk wrote, implying that Nolan’s decision was tied to awards-season politics and Academy inclusion standards.

This marks the latest in a string of public criticisms Musk has directed at Nolan’s adaptation. Earlier this year, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO claimed the film was disrespecting Homer’s original descriptions of Helen of Troy after rumours first surfaced about Nyong’o’s casting. He also previously criticised 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 pushed back against criticism of the actor’s appearance, pointing out that Nyong’o is widely regarded as one of the world’s most celebrated screen performers and fashion figures.

Shot entirely using IMAX 70mm cameras, The Odyssey stars Matt Damon as Odysseus alongside Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson and Charlize Theron. The film is scheduled to release on July 17, 2026.