Queen Latifah and Paula Patton are coming to Zoe Saldana’s defense after tons of people have criticized the actress for her choice to portray Nina Simone in the upcoming biopic, Nina. At the premiere of The Perfect Match, the Associated Press asked Latifah about her thoughts on all the heat surrounding the decision.
“I think Zoe Saldana’s a great actress. So I am looking forward to it. She is of African descent—I don’t see why she shouldn’t play the role. I just want to see it,” said Latifah.
Nina Simone’s Daughter Is ‘Not Upset’ at Zoe Saldana
Paula Patton added, “Clearly, someone thought she was perfect for it. She’s an amazing actress, she’s beautiful, and you haven’t even given her a chance and you haven’t seen it yet. So I wouldn’t want to put that kind of judgement on anything that I haven’t seen, first and foremost, but most importantly imagine being in her shoes and enduring that. It’s not cool, and it’s not right… This was a magnificent woman. Zoe is absolutely an incredible actress, so give her a shot and try to enjoy and stop judging.”
Why I Can’t Support Zoe Saldana’s Makeup in the New Nina Simone Biopic
No doubt fans, critics, and celebs will continue to talk about the questionable casting until the film’s release next month.