Ed Skrein (of Deadpool, and very brief Game of Thrones fame) has announced his resignation from the forthcoming Hellboy flick, after public outcry that he – a white, British dude – was rather outrageously cast as Ben Daimio – a traditionally Asian character.
Skrein – aka the guy that was initially cast as Daario on Game of Thrones and then brutally tossed to the curb for dreamboat Michiel Huisman – took to Twitter last week to announce, and wonderfully articulate the reason behind his exit from the big budget flick.
— Ed Skrein (@edskrein) August 28, 2017
Honestly, what were the creators thinking? In the wake of the Ghost in the Shell whitewashing debacle, did they really think it would be wise to cast yet another caucasian in the shoes of a traditionally Asian character? We recently examined this trend and are astounded that yet another anime classic has been given a thick coat of ol’ caucasian varnish.
It is certainly admirable of Ed Skrein for acknowledging and attempting to rectify this casting oversight (whether intentional or not). Sure, the creators could just as easily slot another white dude into Daimio’s badass boots but the action of Skrein perpetuating the conversation and taking measures to ensure any and all future castings come under intense scrutiny is a step in the right direction.
The Hellboy reboot, directed by Neil Marshall, is scheduled for release in 2018… that is, if no other casting conflicts arise.