Russell Tovey Defends Jack Whitehall's Casting as Gay Character

Jack Whitehall and Disney have come under fire for the straight actor's casting in the studio's first major openly gay role. The character has been described as "hugely effete, very camp, and very funny," which gives the impression the role will be reduced to a stereoype. And given Disney's previous fumbles with LGBTQ representation, many are skeptical of the decision.

Looking actor, Russell Tovey has recently joined Idris Elba in coming to Whitehall's defense. Tovey shared his support of the casting decision with The Telegraph.

Related | Russell Tovey Issues Non-Apology for Comments About Effeminate Gay Men

"If you're an actor, you're an actor," he says. "The whole thing with Jack playing a gay character... I'm like, just let him act. It's like me saying I could never play a straight character because I am not going to know a straight person's thoughts. I've always been out, and happy with the range of characters I've been offered. I've had the most amazing opportunities."

Although Tovey's own experience with getting roles appears to be positive, many gay actors still face Hollywood's veiled homophobic bias. While Disney seems to be celebrating this casting decision as a win for inclusion and representation, some just see it as another missed opportunity.