40 Worst Cases of Hollywood Blackwashing

Hollywood has always played around with casting choices to bring fresh takes on stories. Sometimes these decisions spark big debates when actors of color step into roles originally imagined as white characters from books, comics, or history. Blackwashing happens when black actors take on those parts, and while it aims to add diversity, it often leads to conversations about staying true to the source material or evolving it for new audiences.

These cases show how casting can shake up expectations and draw crowds or criticism. From superhero flicks to period dramas, the choices reflect broader shifts in the industry toward more inclusive storytelling. Let’s dive into examples that got people talking.

Morgan Freeman in ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ (1994)

Morgan Freeman brought depth to Ellis Boyd ‘Red’ Redding, the wise inmate who narrates the story of hope and friendship in prison. Red starts as a long-time prisoner serving life for murder, and he becomes Andy Dufresne’s closest ally after Andy arrives at Shawshank. Freeman’s performance highlights Red’s journey from cynicism to renewed purpose as he works toward parole.

The character comes from Stephen King’s novella where Red is described as a white Irishman with red hair. In the film, Red runs the prison’s black market and shares stories that reveal the harsh realities of life behind bars. Freeman’s portrayal earned him an Oscar nomination and helped make the movie a classic tale of resilience.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw in ‘Loki’ (2021)

Gugu Mbatha-Raw portrayed Ravonna Renslayer, a key Time Variance Authority judge who oversees timeline corrections with a stern hand. Renslayer deals with Loki after he steals the Tesseract and navigates the complexities of time branches. Her role involves manipulating events to maintain the Sacred Timeline while hiding her own secrets.

Originally from Marvel comics, Ravonna is a princess from the 41st century who allies with Kang the Conqueror, depicted as white. In the series, Renslayer commands variants and judges like Mobius, using her authority to prune deviations. Mbatha-Raw’s take adds layers of intrigue to the multiverse plot.

Tessa Thompson in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017)

Tessa Thompson played Valkyrie, the fierce Asgardian warrior who aids Thor in stopping Hela’s rampage across the realms. Valkyrie pilots a spaceship and fights alongside the Revengers to reclaim Asgard from destruction. Her backstory involves surviving the extinction of her fellow Valkyries at Hela’s hands years earlier.

In the comics, Valkyrie is Brunnhilde, a white Asgardian with blonde hair who serves Odin as a warrior maiden. Thompson’s version brings a rebellious edge, living in exile on Sakaar before joining the battle. She wields a sword and shield with skill during the final confrontation.

Samuel L. Jackson in ‘Iron Man’ (2008)

Samuel L. Jackson appeared as Nick Fury, the tough S.H.I.E.L.D. director who recruits Tony Stark after his Iron Man suit debut. Fury briefs Stark on the Avengers Initiative and oversees global threats from his helicarrier base. His no-nonsense approach pushes Stark toward greater responsibility.

The comic version of Nick Fury is a white Navy veteran with an eyepatch from World War II adventures. Jackson’s portrayal sets up the MCU, appearing in post-credit scenes to connect the films. He coordinates with agents like Phil Coulson to monitor superhuman activities.

Jeffrey Wright in ‘The Batman’ (2022)

Jeffrey Wright took on James Gordon, the dedicated Gotham police commissioner who partners with Batman to unmask the Riddler’s killers. Gordon leads investigations into corruption and works to reform the GCPD amid citywide chaos. His alliance with Batman helps expose high-level scandals.

In the comics, Gordon is a white detective who rises through the ranks to become commissioner, often signaling Batman with the Bat-Signal. Wright’s Gordon navigates political pressures and street-level crime in this grounded take. He relies on evidence and intuition during the tense manhunt.

Candice Patton in ‘The Flash’ (2014)

Candice Patton starred as Iris West, the journalist who supports Barry Allen’s life as the Flash while uncovering metahuman stories. Iris runs a blog that evolves into a major news outlet, balancing her career with personal ties to Team Flash. She faces dangers from villains like Reverse-Flash who target her family.

Iris originates in DC comics as a white reporter and Wally West’s aunt, first appearing in Showcase #4. Patton’s Iris grows into a central figure, marrying Barry in a timeline-altering ceremony. She investigates Central City’s threats alongside Cisco and Caitlin.

Anna Diop in ‘Titans’ (2018)

Anna Diop depicted Starfire, the Tamaranean princess who joins the Titans after escaping her home planet’s conflicts. Starfire uses her energy blasts and flight powers to fight alongside Dick Grayson and Rachel Roth against Trigon. Her alien heritage brings unique abilities to the team.

From DC comics, Starfire is Koriand’r, a white-skinned orange-haired alien enslaved before joining the Teen Titans. Diop’s portrayal shows Starfire adapting to Earth customs while harnessing solar energy for strength. She forms bonds that drive the group’s missions.

Zendaya in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017)

Zendaya played Michelle Jones, the intelligent classmate who becomes Peter Parker’s girlfriend amid his Spider-Man duties. Michelle skips school events to read and observes Peter’s secret life with sharp wit. She joins adventures against Vulture and later Mysterio.

Mary Jane Watson in the comics is a white redhead introduced in The Amazing Spider-Man #42 as Peter’s romantic interest. Zendaya’s Michelle evolves into a key ally, using her smarts during high-stakes battles. She attends academic decathlons and provides grounded support.

Regé-Jean Page in ‘Bridgerton’ (2020)

Regé-Jean Page brought to life Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings who enters a fake courtship with Daphne Bridgerton to avoid suitors. Simon grapples with his vow against marriage due to childhood trauma from his father’s abuse. His romance unfolds during London’s social season.

In Julia Quinn’s novels, Simon is a white British nobleman seeking independence from society expectations. Page’s Duke navigates balls and scandals while forming a real bond with Daphne. He confronts family legacy issues that influence his choices.

Denzel Washington in ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ (1993)

Denzel Washington portrayed Don Pedro, the Prince of Aragon who orchestrates romances at his estate after a war victory. Don Pedro teases Claudio about Beatrice and sets up a plot to unite the lovers. His leadership keeps the group together amid misunderstandings.

Shakespeare’s play features Don Pedro as a white Spanish noble hosting the festivities in Messina. Washington’s Don Pedro hosts feasts and dances that advance the comedy. He mediates conflicts arising from deception and jealousy among friends.

Amandla Stenberg in ‘The Hunger Games’ (2012)

Amandla Stenberg acted as Rue, the young tribute from District 11 who allies with Katniss Everdeen in the arena. Rue uses her agility from tree-climbing to evade Careers and shares survival tips. Her innocence highlights the Games’ brutality on children.

The book describes Rue as having dark brown skin and blue eyes, but some readers pictured her as white. Stenberg’s Rue forms a sisterly bond with Katniss, singing a lullaby in her final moments. She represents the districts’ underdogs against the Capitol.

Idris Elba in ‘Thor’ (2011)

Idris Elba embodied Heimdall, the all-seeing Asgardian gatekeeper who guards the Bifrost bridge between worlds. Heimdall spots Loki’s schemes and aids Thor’s return from Earth despite Odin’s exile order. His golden eyes allow vision across the Nine Realms.

In Marvel comics, Heimdall is a white god based on Norse mythology, son of Odin. Elba’s Heimdall wields Hofund sword to control the Bifrost for travel. He remains loyal to Asgard during the Frost Giant invasion.

Don Cheadle in ‘Iron Man 2’ (2010)

Don Cheadle stepped in as James Rhodes, Tony Stark’s best friend and military liaison who becomes War Machine. Rhodes tests Stark’s suits and confronts Whiplash at the Monaco Grand Prix. He pushes Stark to share technology for national security.

Rhodey in comics is a white Air Force lieutenant colonel who pilots the War Machine armor. Cheadle’s Rhodes suits up in the Mark II armor for the final fight at Stark Expo. He balances duty with loyalty to his friend’s reckless genius.

Jodie Turner-Smith in ‘Anne Boleyn’ (2021)

Jodie Turner-Smith led as Anne Boleyn, the ambitious queen who rises from court lady to Henry VIII’s wife amid political intrigue. Anne navigates alliances and bears a daughter, Elizabeth, while facing accusations of treason. Her story unfolds through letters and confessions.

Historical Anne Boleyn was a white English noblewoman executed in 1536. Turner-Smith’s Anne charms Henry and influences reforms like the break from the Catholic Church. She endures scrutiny from rivals like Jane Seymour.

Ciara Renée in ‘Legends of Tomorrow’ (2016)

Ciara Renée portrayed Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl, the reincarnated warrior who joins Rip Hunter’s team to stop Vandal Savage. Kendra wields a mace and flies with Hawkman across time periods from 2166 to 1950s. Her past lives connect her to Carter Hall.

In DC comics, Hawkgirl is Shayera Hol, a white Thanagarian police officer with wings. Renée’s Kendra discovers her powers and fights aberrations like in World War II. She balances modern life with eternal soulmate bonds.

Mehcad Brooks in ‘Supergirl’ (2015)

Mehcad Brooks played Jimmy Olsen, the Daily Planet photographer who moves to National City and befriends Kara Danvers. Olsen captures Supergirl’s heroics and develops feelings for Kara while aiding against threats like Non. He evolves into Guardian with a suit.

Jimmy in DC comics is a white redheaded cub reporter and Superman’s pal since Action Comics #1. Brooks’ Olsen uses photography skills to expose corruption. He trains in combat to protect the city independently.

Quvenzhané Wallis in ‘Annie’ (2014)

Quvenzhané Wallis starred as Annie, the optimistic orphan who warms the heart of billionaire Will Stacks during a New York campaign. Annie searches for her parents while enjoying luxury life and foiling Miss Hannigan’s schemes. Her songs inspire those around her.

The comic strip Annie features a white redheaded girl adopted by Daddy Warbucks in the 1920s. Wallis’ Annie attends school events and rallies supporters for Stacks’ mayoral run. She uncovers clues about her origins through a locket.

Sasha Lane in ‘Hellboy’ (2019)

Sasha Lane appeared as Alice Monaghan, the psychic medium who aids Hellboy in finding Nimue the Blood Queen. Alice uses her abilities to locate magical artifacts and escape B.P.R.D. capture. Her Irish heritage ties to ancient fairy lore.

In Hellboy comics, Alice is a white woman kidnapped by fairies as a child, gaining second sight. Lane’s Alice joins the fight against giants and witches in London. She communicates with spirits during the apocalyptic battle.

Michael B. Jordan in ‘Fantastic Four’ (2015)

Michael B. Jordan was Johnny Storm, the hot-headed pilot who gains flame powers after a cosmic storm exposure. Johnny turns into the Human Torch, flying and igniting in battles against Doctor Doom. He clashes with his sister Sue over recklessness.

Johnny in Marvel comics is a white blonde daredevil and Franklin Storm’s son. Jordan’s Johnny tests his abilities in a Baxter Building lab and joins missions to the Negative Zone. He learns teamwork during the final confrontation in space.

Halle Bailey in ‘The Little Mermaid’ (2023)

Halle Bailey sang as Ariel, the curious mermaid who dreams of human life and strikes a deal with Ursula for legs. Ariel explores land with Prince Eric and restores her voice to stop the sea witch. Her father Triton rules Atlantica with strict underwater laws.

Hans Christian Andersen’s tale and Disney animation show Ariel as a white redheaded princess. Bailey’s Ariel collects gadgets from shipwrecks and befriends Flounder and Sebastian. She dances at the ball and races to save Eric from drowning.

Javicia Leslie in ‘Batwoman’ (2019)

Javicia Leslie became Ryan Wilder, the engineer who inherits Kate Kane’s Batwoman suit after her disappearance. Ryan fights Gotham crime as the new Batwoman, targeting Safiya Sohail’s schemes. She upgrades the suit with tech from her van hideout.

Batwoman in comics starts as Kate Kane, a white redheaded military academy graduate. Leslie’s Ryan uses batarangs and motorcycle pursuits against Alice. She uncovers family secrets tied to the Kane legacy.

Adele James in ‘Queen Cleopatra’ (2023)

Adele James narrated and portrayed Cleopatra, the Egyptian ruler who allies with Rome through Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Cleopatra expands her kingdom and protects her son Caesarion from Octavian’s threats. Her reign involves naval battles and political marriages.

Historical Cleopatra VII was of Greek-Macedonian descent from Ptolemy lineage. James’ Cleopatra speaks in documentaries about her strategies and cultural influences. She commissions libraries and promotes Alexandria’s learning center.

Will Smith in ‘I Am Legend’ (2007)

Will Smith starred as Robert Neville, the last man on Earth who hunts for a cure to the virus that turned humanity into nocturnal mutants. Neville roams the deserted streets of New York with his dog Sam, conducting experiments in his fortified home while avoiding the infected at night. He leaves daily supplies for survivors and broadcasts radio messages in hopes of contact.

The novel by Richard Matheson portrays Neville as a white suburban husband grieving his family before the outbreak. In the film, Neville’s isolation drives him to ethical dilemmas in his research, leading to a climactic confrontation with the darkseekers. Smith’s performance captures the character’s scientific determination and emotional breakdown.

Brandy Norwood in ‘Cinderella’ (1997)

Brandy Norwood played Cinderella, the kind-hearted stepsister who dreams of attending the prince’s ball despite her family’s cruelty. Cinderella receives help from her fairy godmother to transform her rags into a gown and glass slippers for the evening. She captures the prince’s attention with her grace and shares a dance that sparks romance.

Charles Perrault’s fairy tale depicts Cinderella as a white European maiden persecuted by her stepmother and stepsisters. Norwood’s Cinderella sings original songs and navigates palace intrigue after the ball. She proves her identity with the lost slipper during the prince’s search across the kingdom.

Eartha Kitt in ‘Batman’ (1967)

Eartha Kitt portrayed Catwoman, the cunning feline thief who teams up with the Joker and Penguin to capture Batman and Robin. Catwoman uses her cat-themed gadgets and hypnotic purr to outwit the Dynamic Duo during their schemes in Gotham. She lures victims with promises of luxury while plotting world domination.

In the DC comics, Catwoman is Selina Kyle, a white jewel thief and occasional Batman’s love interest first appearing in Batman #1. Kitt’s Catwoman rides a catcycle and deploys catnip traps in episodes like ‘The Cat’s Meow’. Her seductive tactics challenge Batman’s resolve in the campy series.

Billy Dee Williams in ‘Batman’ (1989)

Billy Dee Williams appeared as Harvey Dent, the Gotham district attorney who vows to prosecute crime boss Carl Grissom before his transformation into Two-Face. Dent works closely with Batman to dismantle the underworld using legal channels and public support. His charisma rallies the city against corruption.

Harvey Dent in DC comics is a white lawyer scarred by acid, becoming the dual-personality villain Two-Face in Detective Comics #66. Williams’ Dent attends galas and coordinates with Vicki Vale on investigations. Though his full arc waits for sequels, he embodies justice in the dark knight’s world.

Michael Clarke Duncan in ‘Daredevil’ (2003)

Michael Clarke Duncan embodied Wilson Fisk, the imposing crime lord known as Kingpin who crushes opposition in Hell’s Kitchen. Kingpin operates from shadows, bribing officials and eliminating rivals like Bullseye to maintain his empire. His brute strength and tactical mind make him a formidable foe for vigilantes.

In Marvel comics, Kingpin is a white bald gangster who battles Spider-Man and Daredevil since The Amazing Spider-Man #50. Duncan’s Kingpin wields a cane as a weapon and oversees smuggling rings. He confronts Matt Murdock in court before escalating to personal vendettas.

Laurence Fishburne in ‘Man of Steel’ (2013)

Laurence Fishburne played Perry White, the tough editor of the Daily Planet who assigns Lois Lane to cover Superman’s emergence. White demands hard-hitting stories on the alien’s arrival and pushes Clark Kent toward investigative journalism. He shelters the newsroom during Zod’s invasion of Metropolis.

Perry White in DC comics is a white cigar-chomping editor debuting in Superman #7, mentor to Jimmy Olsen and Lois. Fishburne’s White rallies reporters amid destruction from Kryptonian battles. He publishes exposés that reveal Superman’s Kryptonian heritage to the public.

Naomie Harris in ‘Skyfall’ (2012)

Naomie Harris starred as Eve Moneypenny, the MI6 field agent who assists Bond in pursuing Raoul Silva after a mission goes wrong. Moneypenny handles gadgets and drives high-speed chases across Istanbul and Shanghai. She recovers from a setback to support Bond’s defense of MI6 headquarters.

In Ian Fleming’s novels, Miss Moneypenny is a white secretary in James Bond’s office since Casino Royale. Harris’ Moneypenny flirts with Bond and deciphers Silva’s cyber threats. By the film’s end, she returns to her desk role while maintaining a personal connection with 007.

Jeffrey Wright in ‘Casino Royale’ (2006)

Jeffrey Wright depicted Felix Leiter, the CIA agent who partners with James Bond to track Le Chiffre in Montenegro. Leiter provides financial backing for Bond’s poker tournament entry and shares intelligence on terrorist funding. He survives a brutal attack to continue aiding the mission.

Felix Leiter in Fleming’s books is a white Texan ally first introduced in Casino Royale as Bond’s poker companion. Wright’s Leiter navigates high-stakes gambling and underwater pursuits. He coordinates with the Treasury to counter Le Chiffre’s money-laundering schemes.

Bernie Casey in ‘Never Say Never Again’ (1983)

Bernie Casey portrayed Felix Leiter, the CIA operative who briefs James Bond on SPECTRE’s nuclear extortion plot. Leiter supplies Bond with underwater gear for infiltrating Largo’s yacht and monitors the Domino affair. He joins the assault on the Tears of Allah operation in the Bahamas.

Leiter appears in Fleming’s Thunderball as a white field agent assisting Bond against SPECTRE. Casey’s Leiter pilots seaplanes and decodes enemy communications. He helps thwart the villain’s plan to detonate atomic bombs for ransom.

Noma Dumezweni in ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ (2016)

Noma Dumezweni played Hermione Granger, the brilliant witch who serves as Minister for Magic while guiding her son Albus through Hogwarts challenges. Hermione uses spells to confront time-turner threats and supports Harry Potter against dark forces resurfacing. Her intellect drives the plot’s magical investigations.

In J.K. Rowling’s books, Hermione is a white Muggle-born student known for her bushy hair and top grades since Philosopher’s Stone. Dumezweni’s Hermione attends ministry meetings and duels Voldemort echoes. She balances family life with defending the wizarding world from Scorpius Malfoy’s dilemmas.

Jacob Anderson in ‘Interview with the Vampire’ (2022)

Jacob Anderson starred as Louis de Pointe du Lac, the rice farmer turned vampire who recounts his eternal life to interviewer Daniel Molloy in 2022. Louis navigates his bond with Lestat in 1910s New Orleans, feeding on rats before embracing his nature. He flees to Paris after conflicts with his maker.

Anne Rice’s novel depicts Louis as a white Creole plantation owner seeking philosophical depth in immortality. Anderson’s Louis explores jazz clubs and confronts moral struggles over killing. He raises Claudia as a daughter while grappling with vampiric isolation.

David Gyasi in ‘Troy: Fall of a City’ (2018)

David Gyasi embodied Achilles, the legendary Greek warrior who withdraws from the Trojan War after Agamemnon disrespects him by taking Briseis. Achilles trains Patroclus and returns to battle Hector after his cousin’s death. His rage fuels the Greek assault on Troy’s walls.

In Homer’s Iliad, Achilles is a white Myrmidon hero with divine mother Thetis, central to the epic poem. Gyasi’s Achilles sails from Pylos and engages in duels that shift the war’s tide. He mourns losses and consults seers about his fated glory.

Denzel Washington in ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’ (2021)

Denzel Washington led as Macbeth, the Scottish general who murders King Duncan after witches prophesy his rise to power. Macbeth ascends the throne but descends into paranoia, ordering Banquo’s death and facing Lady Macbeth’s guilt. He battles Macduff in the castle’s final siege.

Shakespeare’s play portrays Macbeth as a white thane tempted by ambition in medieval Scotland. Washington’s Macbeth delivers soliloquies on fate and consults the three witches for reassurance. His tyranny sparks rebellion from allies like Malcolm.

Jurnee Smollett in ‘Birds of Prey’ (2020)

Jurnee Smollett played Dinah Lance, the nightclub singer who becomes Black Canary and joins Harley Quinn against Black Mask. Dinah uses her sonic scream to disable thugs and drives the team through Gotham’s underworld. She protects Renee Montoya during casino heists.

In DC comics, Black Canary is a white martial artist with a canary cry debuting in Flash Comics #86. Smollett’s Dinah performs at the Black Mask Club and uncovers Roman Sionis’s operations. She teams with Huntress for the trap at the docks.

Aldis Hodge in ‘Black Adam’ (2022)

Aldis Hodge portrayed Carter Hall, the archaeologist who becomes Hawkman and leads the Justice Society against Teth-Adam. Hawkman wields a mace and flies with Nth metal wings to battle Intergang in Kahndaq. He uncovers ancient secrets tied to the wizard Shazam.

Hawkman in DC comics is a white reincarnated Egyptian prince first appearing in Flash Comics #1. Hodge’s Hawkman pilots the Blackhawk plane and coordinates with Doctor Fate. He confronts Adam’s anti-hero rampage in the film’s climactic showdown.

Kirby Howell-Baptiste in ‘The Sandman’ (2022)

Kirby Howell-Baptiste depicted Death, the anthropomorphic entity who guides souls to the afterlife and befriends Dream during his quest to reclaim artifacts. Death collects Morpheus from imprisonment and discusses existence over coffee with humans. She appears kind yet enforces cosmic rules.

In Neil Gaiman’s comics, Death is a white goth girl with an ankh necklace premiering in The Sandman #2. Howell-Baptiste’s Death visits historical figures and aids in family reunions. She comforts the dying while maintaining the balance of life and death.

Madeleine Madden in ‘The Wheel of Time’ (2021)

Madeleine Madden starred as Egwene al’Vere, the village girl from Emond’s Field who trains as an Aes Sedai to channel the One Power. Egwene escapes Whitecloak pursuits and studies in Tar Valon under the Amyrlin Seat. She faces Forsaken threats during the Dragon Reborn’s rise.

In Robert Jordan’s novels, Egwene is a white wool trader’s daughter growing into leadership since The Eye of the World. Madden’s Egwene weaves wards and dreams of prophecies. She allies with Rand al’Thor against the Dark One’s forces.

Ismael Cruz Cordova in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ (2022)

Ismael Cruz Cordova played Arondir, the Silvan elf ranger who serves in the Southlands watch and falls in love with human Bronwyn. Arondir investigates orc sightings and fights in the watchtower battle against Adar’s forces. He joins the migration to Númenor after volcanic eruptions.

J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium depicts elves as fair-skinned immortals in Middle-earth lore. Cordova’s Arondir scouts haradrim influences and protects villages from warg attacks. He trains with Elendil’s soldiers in the elven-human alliance.

Share your thoughts on these casting choices in the comments.