Cast of Amazon’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’ issues statement condemning the “relentless racism” and harassment of castmates

nme.com:

The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power have issued a statement condemning “the relentless racism, threats, harassment and abuse” levelled against some of the show’s actors.Written by the actors and shared via Rings of Power’s Twitter page today (September 8), the statement comes after the series — a prequel to J.R.R.

Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy — received racist backlash regarding the diversity of its cast.The statement addresses the treatment that “some of [the] castmates of color are being subject to”, with the lead ensemble — which includes POC actors Ismael Cruz Cordova, Sophia Nomvete and Lenny Henry — writing that they “refuse to ignore it or tolerate it.”We stand in solidarity with our cast. #YouAreAllWelcomeHere pic.twitter.com/HLIQdyqLmr— The Lord of the Rings on Prime (@LOTRonPrime) September 7, 2022The message goes on to explain the inclusivity and “fellowship” inherent in Tolkien’s fantasy universe, stating that “Middle-earth is not all white” and that “BIPOC belong in Middle-earth and are here to stay.” The statement concludes by thanking the show’s fans — particularly “fans of colour” — who have likewise been attacked for their support.“Tolkien created a world which, by definition, is multi-cultural.

A world in which free peoples from different races and cultures join together… to defeat the forces of evil,” the statement read. “[POC fans,] you are valid, you are loved, and you belong.

You are an integral part of the LOTR family – thanks for having our backs.”A post shared by Prime Video (@primevideo)The sentiment was also shared across Prime Video’s social media channels, with the streaming service accompanying the statement with the caption: “We stand in solidarity with our cast.” Elsewhere,.