Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, who is set to star as Juliet in the upcoming production of “Romeo & Juliet,” has been the target of racist and misogynistic abuse online following the announcement of her casting.
Over 800 predominantly Black female and non-binary actors have rallied behind Francesca, signing an open letter denouncing the abuse and expressing their unwavering support. Led by actors Susan Wokoma and Somalia Nonyé Seaton, the letter condemned the racist and misogynistic attacks faced by Black performers in the industry.
Francesca ordeal is quite similar to the discrimination faced by Black artists in recent years. Actors like Lashana Lynch, Halle Bailey, and Yara Shahidi have also been subjected to racist trolling upon getting significant roles.
The Jamie Lloyd Company, responsible for the production of “Romeo & Juliet,” has issued a statement condemning the online abuse directed at Francesca.
