Actor Odessa A’zion has withdrawn from Sean Durkin’s upcoming A24 film Deep Cut following online criticism over her casting, reopening discussions around representation and whitewashing in Hollywood adaptations. Her exit came just two days after the casting announcement, drawing significant attention across social media.

A’zion was cast as Zoe Gutierrez, a character described in Holly Brickley’s 2023 novel as being of Mexican and Jewish heritage. Readers and commentators questioned the decision to cast a white actor in the role, arguing it diluted the character’s cultural identity. The controversy intensified after unverified claims circulated online suggesting the character might be rewritten for the screen adaptation.

Responding to the backlash, A’zion posted on Instagram that she had not been fully aware of the character’s background when she accepted the role. She explained that she initially auditioned for a different character and later accepted Zoe without reading the novel. After learning more, she chose to step away, stating she did not want to take a role better suited for someone with direct cultural ties to the character.

A’zion’s decision places her among a small group of actors who have publicly exited projects over representation concerns. Past examples include Ed Skrein stepping down from Hellboy in 2017 and Scarlett Johansson withdrawing from Rub & Tug in 2018. In contrast, many past casting controversies have proceeded despite criticism.

Deep Cut is set in the early 2000s and follows two young adults navigating ambition, music, and identity. Cailee Spaeny stars as a music critic, with Drew Starkey playing a songwriter. The film is directed by Sean Durkin and produced by a team including Josh Safdie, with original music by Blake Mills.

With A’zion’s departure, casting for Zoe Gutierrez has reopened, and attention is now focused on whether the role will be filled by an actor whose background aligns with the character’s identity.