Rob Finnerty’s apology over his Nairobi remarks has renewed attention to his criticism of Lupita Nyong’o’s role in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey.
The Lupita casting debate has resurfaced following American television host Rob Finnerty’s apology over remarks about Nairobi. His earlier criticism targeted Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o’s casting as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey.
The Newsmax presenter faced backlash in May after arguing that the casting decision amounted to rewriting history. Now, his comments have returned to the spotlight alongside a separate dispute over his portrayal of Kenya’s capital.
Why the Lupita casting debate drew criticism
Finnerty questioned Nyong’o’s selection for the Greek mythological role, arguing that Helen of Troy was not Black. He presented that position as a factual objection to the Oscar-winning actress’s casting.
He also criticised the reported casting of Elliot Page as Achilles. Finnerty linked both objections to what he described as Hollywood’s embrace of progressive politics through casting choices.
However, The Odyssey draws on Homer’s ancient Greek epic, whose central characters belong to mythology rather than established historical records. The dispute therefore touched on how filmmakers interpret ancient myths for modern audiences.
Nyong’o, meanwhile, defended the diversity of the film’s cast, saying it reflected the wider world. She also said she was not spending her time preparing a defence of her casting.
The exchange prompted broader discussion about race, representation and creative freedom in Hollywood. Those questions have now resurfaced amid the backlash over Finnerty’s Nairobi comparison.
Nairobi comparison prompts apology
During an October 9 discussion about immigration in the United States, Finnerty criticised American cities under Democratic leadership. He said they were beginning to resemble Nairobi more than New York City.
Kenyans objected to his use of their capital as a negative comparison. In response, Finnerty issued an apology on X on October 13.
He expressed regret to Nairobi residents and anyone his remarks had offended, saying he had misspoken. Finnerty also acknowledged Kenyans’ strong attachment to their city and country.
Some Kenyans seek an on-air retraction
However, the written apology has not ended the criticism. Some Kenyans have demanded that Finnerty return to the television studio, apologise live and formally retract his remarks.
The renewed attention has brought his comments about Nyong’o and Nairobi into the same conversation. While the disputes concern different subjects, both have sparked debate about racial representation and portrayals of Africa.
