Zendaya backs Tom Holland
Zendaya shows support for her boyfriend Tom Holland amidst Romeo & Juliet play that has become embroiled in racism controversy. Social media is pushing for Tom to speak up but no response yet from his camp.
One social media person said. “‘It is incredibly embarrassing and indicting that a dark skinned black woman who has nothing to do with your production is urging you to defend your own co-star. an incredibly useless and spineless man;'”
Zendaya speaking to Vogue said she could not be more proud him. Some think being this close to the story being a women of colour Zendaya should speak up.
This comes after more than 800 Black actors have united in an open declaration denouncing the racial harassment suffered by Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, who recently secured the role of Juliet in a London West End rendition of “Romeo & Juliet” alongside Tom Holland.
Part of the letter reads “the racist and misogynistic abuse directed at such a sweet soul has been too much to bear. For a casting announcement of a play to ignite such twisted ugly abuse is truly embarrassing for those so empty and barren in their own lives that they must meddle in hateful abuse.”
The letter, which appeared in The Guardian was spearheaded by Susan Wokoma, known for her role in “Enola Holmes,” and Somalia Nonyé Seaton, the playwright behind “Crowning Glory.” It voices, “Upon learning of Francesca Amewudah-Rivers’ casting in Jamie Lloyd’s rendition of ‘Romeo & Juliet,’ countless individuals rejoiced and extended their warm wishes. Many of us took to social media to pour out our affection and congratulations for this rising star in her early career. It was a significant moment.”
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“However, what followed was a distressingly familiar ordeal that many of us, particularly those of darker skin tones, have endured. The racist and misogynistic vitriol aimed at such a gentle spirit has been unbearable. To witness a casting announcement provoke such despicable abuse reflects poorly on those whose lives are so bereft of substance that they resort to such hateful conduct.”
Among the 883 signatories are prominent figures like Lashana Lynch (“No Time to Die”), Sheila Atim (“The Woman King”), Marianne Jean-Baptiste (“Secrets & Lies”), Lolly Adefope (“Ghosts”), Freema Agyeman (“Doctor Who”), Wunmi Mosaku (“His House”), and Tamara Lawrance (“The Silent Twins”).
The release of this letter follows a statement issued last week by Jamie Lloyd Company, producers of “Romeo & Juliet,” condemning the racial abuse faced by a member of their ensemble without specifically naming Amewudah-Rivers.
The Jamie Lloyd Company’s statement was positively received by the signatories of the letter, who expressed hope that it would translate into tangible emotional support for Francesca throughout her involvement in the production.
“Far too often, theatre companies, broadcasters, producers, and streaming platforms have turned a blind eye to the plight of their Black artists when faced with racist or misogynistic attacks. Reporting these incidents is frequently left to the victims themselves, who are then expected to promote the show,” the letter continues. “To Francesca and all Black female performers confronting such abuse, we want to convey a clear message – we stand with you. We acknowledge the art you create, despite facing not only the challenges your white colleagues encounter but also the additional hurdle of misogynoir. We eagerly anticipate witnessing your brilliance shine through.”
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