You may remember Scarlett Johansson faced backlash for her role in Ghost In The Shell, a plot line of Japanese origin that should have rightly so involved an actress of Japanese background. Presently, Johansson has been cast in the role of a transgender man in the upcoming film Rub and Tug which focuses around Dante "Tex" Gill a prominent trans man who was a fixture in Pittsburgh's massage parlour industry in the 70s and 80s.
This film was anticipated to be a large and impactful film for the trans industry, it would have been an excellent opportunity to provide a platform and representation for the trans community. Just as Ghost In The Shell would have been an excellent platform for the Japanese community and a chance for Japanese actors and actresses to take part in an iconic film.
The casting of a straight, cis, white woman in roles created and suited for marginalised communities does a disservice to those in need of a voice and representation. Trace Lysette, Jamie Clayton two of many trans actress spoke out against the casting calling attention to casting double standards for Cis actors.
There is an increasingly large demand for proper representation in the film and television industry. Actors and actresses and casting directors alike have a responsibility to ensure proper representation and authenticity to a story's organs, fictional or not.
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