Additional Coverage:
- Odessa A’zion exits A24 film after backlash to her being cast as character with Mexican heritage (nbcnews.com)
Odessa A’zion Steps Down from “Deep Cuts” After Online Backlash
Actress Odessa A’zion has announced her withdrawal from A24’s upcoming film adaptation of “Deep Cuts.” The decision comes after significant online criticism regarding her casting as Zoe Gutierrez, a character described in Holly Brickley’s 2025 novel as Mexican and Jewish.
A’zion, known for her roles in “Marty Supreme” and the HBO series “I Love LA,” addressed the controversy on Instagram stories, stating she “hadn’t read the book and should have paid more attention to all aspects of Zoe before accepting.” She went on to unequivocally declare, “F— that! IM OUT.”
The actress clarified that she had initially auditioned for a different role, Percy, and was subsequently offered the part of Zoe. “I’d never take a role from someone else that’s meant to do it.
That SHOULD do it! That’s not me,” she wrote, indicating her respect for authentic representation.
A’zion further explained her initial focus on the script’s primary characters. “Still haven’t read the book but the story in the script focused on Percy and Joe, so of course on my initial read that was my main focus as well. I was happy to be involved as a different role, but I just can not do it knowing more about Zoe now,” she shared.
The film’s other lead roles are set to be played by Cailee Spaeny as Percy and Drew Starkey as Joe. A’zion did not immediately respond to a request for comment.