Israeli Hollywood star Gal Gadot is set to play the role of Cleopatra in an upcoming remake of the famed biopic, directed by Patty Jenkins and written by Laeta Kalogridis. Gadot has previously worked with Jenkins on both Wonder Woman films, teaming up once again to tell the story of the famous Egyptian queen in a film set to be produced by Paramount Pictures.  The announcement of Gadot playing Cleopatra however, has caused outrage and backlash across social media. Disputes over Cleopatra’s heritage and ancestry have surfaced and parallels are being drawn with Gadot’s heritage and ethnicity.  Being Israeli with Greek origins, there are those who argue that Gadot is unfit to be playing the role of the Egyptian queen. The casting choice has been met with both questions of racism and ethnic diversity and appropriation in Hollywood as many believe an Arab or dark-skinned actor would have been a better fit for the role.  In addition to this, the casting choice has also caused politically-inclined dispute as other people are angered by the fact that an Israeli actress is set to play the role of an Egyptian queen. Some … Continue reading Gal Gadot to Star in Cleopatra Biopic, Sparking Outrage