Odessa A’zion Exits Film Amid Casting Controversy
Odessa A’zion has stepped away from A24’s film adaptation of the novel Deep Cuts, following criticism regarding her casting. The actress was recently announced as Zoe Gutierrez, a character depicted as half-Mexican and half-Jewish in the upcoming film, based on Holly Brickley’s 2025 book.
Controversy Surrounding Casting Decision
A’zion, 25, is known for her role in the Oscar contender Marty Supreme. Although she has Jewish heritage, fans expressed disappointment over the casting, questioning the representation of Zoe, who does not share A’zion’s background. These concerns led to widespread conversations about the portrayal of characters in film and television.
Actress Responds to Fans
In a heartfelt Instagram message to her 2.1 million followers, A’zion acknowledged the criticism. She stated, “I’m with ALL of you and I am not doing this movie.” The actress admitted she did not fully consider the implications of her casting before accepting the role. She expressed regret for not reading the book initially, saying, “I should have paid more attention.”
- A’zion expressed her support for diverse casting.
- She emphasized the importance of proper representation in film.
- Her decision to exit was influenced by fan feedback.
Support from Peers
A’zion received backing from notable actor Pedro Pascal, who publicly praised her decision on social media. Pascal highlighted the challenges actors face, stating that they often lack knowledge about roles until signing contracts. His support underscored the importance of ethical casting practices.
Future Productions
Deep Cuts is set to start production in February 2026, with a cast that includes Cailee Spaeny as Percy and Drew Starkey as her love interest. Directed by Sean Durkin, the film aims to reflect cultural narratives while emphasizing representation.
Odessa A’zion is currently featured in HBO’s I Love LA and continues to build her career in a competitive industry. Her response to the casting controversy demonstrates her commitment to appropriate representation, a critical topic in today’s cinematic landscape.
