Zoe Saldana calls Neytiri 'racist': 'Avatar' fans are confused
What's the story
Zoe Saldana, who plays Neytiri in the Avatar films, recently called her character "racist" in an interview with CinemaBlend. The comments were made while promoting Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third released film in the planned five-film franchise. This statement has sparked a debate among fans about whether or not it accurately describes Neytiri's actions and motivations.
Character analysis
Saldana's take on Neytiri's relationship with Jake Sully
In the same interview, Saldana also discussed how Neytiri's behavior affects her relationship with Jake Sully (Sam Worthington). She said, "Let's face it, Neytiri's a racist. And she just... and she loses sight because of this blind fury that she has." "She loses sight that the person that she loves the most and respects the most in her life is her husband, and he is human."
Fan reactions
Fans react to Saldana's comments on Neytiri
Saldana's comments have since gone viral on social media, confusing fans about what she meant. One user wrote, "She's a what?! She ain't a racist, she is against colonialism." Another said on X, "The oppressed will NEVER be able to be racist to their oppressors, idc how you slice & dice it." A third netizen added, "Racist???? her hate has NOTHING to do with race....? it's because she's sick and tired of her home being attacked and colonized."
Defense
Some fans defended Saldana's description of Neytiri
Despite the backlash, some fans defended Saldana's interpretation of Neytiri. One user wrote, "Yall zoe saldana has played neytiri for 18 YEARS she knows her character better than anyone." Another said, "Ya'll she literally IS NAYTIRI. You can't argue when the facts are coming from the direct source." A third TikToker added, "She's being really blunt and no bias at all. Respect."
Film synopsis
'Avatar: Fire and Ash' continues the franchise's legacy
Directed by James Cameron, Avatar: Fire and Ash continues the story from the first two films. It picks up immediately after 2022's Avatar: The Way of Water, which ended with Marine-turned-Na'vi leader Jake Sully and Na'vi warrior Neytiri mourning their eldest son Neteyam's death. The film was released on December 19.