A wave of vile racist attacks has been unleashed online, targeting a member of the cast in an upcoming production of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy “Romeo and Juliet.”
The Jamie Lloyd Company, responsible for staging this rendition, has voiced firm condemnation of the abhorrent behavior and reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting the artists involved.
The contemporary retelling features Tom Holland of “Spider-Man” fame as Romeo, alongside Francesca Amewaduh-Rivers from “Sex Education” in the role of Juliet.
Despite the excitement surrounding this fresh interpretation, a reprehensible outpouring of racial vitriol has marred the buildup to the show’s premiere at London’s Duke of York’s Theatre on May 23rd.
In a statement issued on X, the production company declared zero tolerance for such despicable acts of harassment and bullying.
This disturbing incident shows the pervasive nature of this issue, with a majority of actors of color recounting experiences of racial stereotyping and discriminatory conduct throughout their careers.