Alec Baldwin fires back at Elon Musk over Lupita Nyong'o casting in 'The Odyssey'

Alec Baldwin has publicly defended Lupita Nyong'o after Elon Musk endorsed criticism over her casting as Helen of Troy in The Odyssey.

Baldwin, 68, addressed the controversy in an Instagram post, sharing a photo of Nyong’o and writing: “Dear Elon… but she IS the most beautiful woman in the world… Alec.”

The dispute began when conservative commentator Matt Walsh criticized director Christopher Nolan for casting Nyong’o, arguing that the Oscar-winning actress did not fit the traditional image of Helen of Troy, the mythological figure often described as the woman whose beauty “launched a thousand ships.”

Musk responded to Walsh’s post on X with a brief reply: “True.” In later comments, he suggested Nolan had compromised his artistic integrity to appeal to awards voters.

The remarks prompted backlash from many social media users, who accused Musk of amplifying racially charged criticism of Nyong’o, widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed performers. Nyong’o won an Academy Award for her role in 12 Years a Slave.

Musk has previously criticised rumoured casting decisions for the film, including inaccurate reports that Elliot Page would portray Achilles. It was later confirmed that Page would instead play Elpenor.

Nolan has not publicly responded to the latest controversy. His adaptation of Homer’s epic poem has generated significant attention for its ambitious cast, which also includes rapper Travis Scott.

Baldwin’s statement has been widely shared online, with many praising the actor for defending Nyong’o and pushing back against criticism of her casting.