Gal Gadot addresses criticism over her casting as Cleopatra

Patty Jenkins who is directing the upcoming film was recently accused of 'whitewashing'

Hollywood actor Gal Gadot was recently announced to play the lead in an upcoming biopic based on the life of Egyptian Queen Cleopatra. Her casting as Celopatra immediately drew the ire of netizens who went on to critcise the director Patty Jenkins.

Jenkins was accused of 'whitewashing' after casting a white Israeli woman to play such a role with people suggesting the part be given to an African or black actress instead.

In a recent interview , Gadot has gone on to address the criticism and defend her casting in the role, reported Daily Mail. "First of all, if you want to be true to the facts, then Cleopatra was Macedonian," Gadot said. "We were looking for a Macedonian actress that could fit Cleopatra. She wasn't there. And I was very passionate about Cleopatra."

Adding on the Wonder Woman star said, "I have friends from across the globe, whether they're Muslims or Christian or Catholic or atheist or Buddhist, or Jewish of course... People are people. And with me, I want to celebrate the legacy of Cleopatra and honor this amazing historic icon that I admire so much."

She went on to talk about how she intends on bringing her own spin in the movie. "But, you know, anybody can make this movie and anybody can go ahead and do it. I'm very passionate that I'm gonna do my own, too."

Gadot,will also produce the new Cleopatra film, taking on the role made famous by Elizabeth Taylor in the 1963 classic of the same name. The biopic will retell the 'story for the first time through women's eyes, both behind and in front of the camera,' Gadot said.

Have something to add to the story? Share in the comment below.