Whoopi Goldberg Responds to Elon Musk’s Criticism of Lupita Nyong’o’s Role in Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’

Whoopi Goldberg Defends Lupita Nyong’o Amid Elon Musk Controversy

Whoopi Goldberg has publicly defended actress Lupita Nyong’o following remarks made by Elon Musk regarding Nyong’o’s potential role in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming adaptation of The Odyssey. Musk criticized the choice of Nyong’o as an actress for the character Helen of Troy, claiming Nolan had “lost his integrity” over the casting decision.

In her remarks, Goldberg emphasized the absurdity of Musk’s criticism, noting, “Ooh, you know, because Homer described this fictional character as fair-skinned, blonde, who was so beautiful that men started a war over her. I don’t know if you realize this, Lupita is also considered one of the world’s most beautiful women. So, I’m not sure what you’re trying to say.”

Goldberg further advised Musk not to engage with her, suggesting he reflect on his own views about beauty. She stated, “You don’t actually have to go to the movie. See, I don’t know why you feel the need to speak on this. I would suggest looking in a mirror if you have any concerns about people’s looks, if this is where we’re going.”

Anticipating a backlash from Musk’s supporters, Goldberg added, “Don’t bother to clown me, baby. I know what I look like. There’s so many things I want to say to you that are rude and awful, but I won’t do it. But know that I’m thinking it.”

As the discussion continued among her fellow The View panelists, Goldberg concluded with a firm message directed at Musk: “Elon, just sit down. For this, when it comes to artistic stuff, go sit down, please.”

Nyong’o was confirmed to join the cast of The Odyssey in November 2024, though her specific character details have yet to be disclosed. The film, an adaptation of Homer’s epic poem about Odysseus’s journey home after the Trojan War, is scheduled to premiere on July 17, 2026. The cast also includes high-profile actors such as Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, and Zendaya.