In a recent discussion about Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey, Elliot Page’s performance was widely praised by both critics and fans. However, despite the success of the film, the Canadian actor revealed that he has not been receiving any new acting opportunities post the movie’s release.
During an interview on the podcast On Film… With Kevin McCarthy, Page disclosed that he has not been inundated with casting calls following his notable role as the Greek soldier Sinon in The Odyssey. Addressing the lack of incoming offers, Page humorously responded to host Kevin McCarthy, indicating a surprising absence of new opportunities.
Page, a native of Halifax, garnered attention for his portrayal in The Odyssey for his compelling depiction of Sinon, a character who meets an untimely demise in the story. Despite his acclaimed performance, Page acknowledged facing criticism, notably for being Canadian, humorously alluding to the past transphobic controversies surrounding his rumored casting as Achilles, a role he did not ultimately play.
The film sparked controversy among right-wing figures such as Ben Shapiro, Megyn Kelly, and Elon Musk, who incited a social media frenzy over the possibility of a trans man portraying a prominent character. This uproar, discredited by 2SLGBTQ+ advocates, was further debunked when it was clarified that Page assumed a different role in the movie.
Page, known for his extensive acting career since childhood, including his Oscar-nominated role in Juno and appearances in Inception and Hard Candy, publicly came out as transgender in 2020. He has been vocal about his advocacy against anti-2SLGBTQ+ rhetoric and legislation in both the U.S. and Canada, signing an open letter with other Canadian artists condemning detrimental anti-trans policies.
In a recent podcast episode, Page expressed his eagerness to continue pursuing diverse acting roles, emphasizing that his transition has boosted his confidence and comfort, potentially enabling him to deliver his best performances. Reflecting on his past collaborations, Page credited his recent experiences, particularly in The Odyssey, for fostering personal growth and a sense of fulfillment in his career.
Page’s situation reflects a broader industry trend, as noted by fellow actor Samantha Morton, who played Circe in the Nolan epic. Morton revealed on a podcast that she has faced a dry spell in her acting career post the film’s release, attributing this partly to evolving industry dynamics and increased competition among talented actors.
While Page and Morton navigate the post-film landscape, their experiences shed light on the challenges and uncertainties actors face beyond the spotlight.