Richard E Grant says it’s ‘unjustifiable’ to cast straight actors in gay roles
The actor played gay character Jack Hock in 'Can You Ever Forgive Me?' which he received an Oscar nomination
By Steve Brown
Words: Steve Brown
Richard E Grant believes it is ‘unjustifiable’ to cast a straight actor in a gay role.
The actor – who identifies as straight – has expressed concern over straight actors playing gay roles in movies despite himself playing gay character Jack Hock in Can You Ever Forgive Me? which he scored an Oscar nomination for.
While speaking to The Sunday Times Magazine, Grant said: “I’ve always had that concern.
“The transgender movement and the #MeToo movement means how can you justify heterosexual actors playing gay characters?
“We are in a historic moment. If you want someone to play a disabled role, that should be a disabled actor.
“I understand why and how [the current change of mood has] come about.”
The actor is set to make his debut in the Star Wars franchise as the new villain in the final instalment of the Skywalker saga this month.
Grant has also been cast to play Hugo and his drag queen alter ego Loco Chanel in the movie adapation of the hit West End show, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie.