What is the story about?
Christopher Nolan's upcoming The Odyssey might be one of the most awaited releases of 2026. But Elon Musk is not happy. Infact his remark on a certain
actor's casting in the period drama has triggered a heated debate online. Musk believes Lupita Nyong'o, who reportedly plays the character of Helen of Troy in Nolan's adaptation of The Odyssey, is not the best choice. The tech mogul reacted to speculation around Lupita's reported role, questioning the legendary filmmaker's casting choices for portraying classic characters. Actors Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway and Zendaya have so far been confirmed to play central roles in The Odyssey. While makers are yet to include Lupita Nyong'o, strong reports claim she's part of the team.
What did Elon Musk say?
Controversy brewed from n X (formerly Twitter) post by its owner, Elon Musk recently. The thread started when a user wrote "Christopher Nolan already ruined The Odyssey," while giving his explanation. Another one added, "helen of troy was fair-skinned, blonde, and "the face that launched a thousand ships" because she was so beautiful that men started a war over her. casting choices that make the premise incoherent are admissions that the story was never the point and an insult to the author." Musk gave his two cents on the discussion by reacting, "Chris Nolan has lost his integrity."
What is the contradiction about?
The argument over casting a Black actress as Helen, who was traditionally described in ancient sources as 'fair-skinned' and blonde, would be 'an insult' to Homer's original text, many others added to Musk's remark.
Online debate over Hollywood casting
While many agreed with Musk claiming that Nolan's casting choice undermines consistency with traditional depictions in the epic, it eventually invited a broader online debate about Hollywood casting and historical/mythological accuracy, with other joining in. Some netizens called Musk's comment inappropriate or reactionary, while others defended his right to an opinion
Many others rejected Musk's opinion, pointing out that The Odyssey is mythology, not literal history, and that characters from myth can be reimagined creatively. "The Odyssey’ is a myth. There is no historical evidence to suggest that Helen of Troy actually existed… Just ask Homer," wrote a user. Another one said, "I want everyone to go google who Helen of Troy’s parents are… just try to talk to me about historical accuracy with a straight face."
About The Odyssey
The Odyssey stars Matt Damon as Greek hero Odysseus. The epic follows his perilous journey home after the Trojan War, featuring mythological dangers and emotional stakes. Tom Holland appears as Telemachus, Odysseus’ son, while Anne Hathaway is seen as Penelope, his loyal wife waiting for his return
Actors Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, Charlize Theron, Mia Goth, Benny Safdie, Jon Bernthal, and John Leguizamo are also speculated to be part of the star-studded cast.
