Actress Odessa A’zion has withdrawn from the upcoming A24 film Deep Cuts following backlash alleging the casting amounted to whitewashing.
She addressed the controversy via Instagram Stories, saying she agrees with critics and would rather the role go to someone more appropriate.
The move is being interpreted as a rare public accountability step that may shape how studios handle culturally sensitive casting decisions.
Echotitbits take: This is textbook Gen Z accountability: direct, personal, and fast. By stepping aside early, she protects her brand equity and forces the studio to own the casting decision—an approach that’s becoming the new playbook for young stars.
Source: UsaToday – https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2026/01/29/odessa-azion-deep-cuts-whitewashing-controversy/88411596007/ 2026-01-29
Photo Credit: Los Angeles Times
