Gal Gadot is set to play Cleopatra in an upcoming film about the ancient Egyptian queen—but the casting has divided the internet.
The Wonder Woman star is reuniting with filmmaker Patty Jenkins for the biopic which is tentatively titled, Cleopatra.
However, many on social media are questioning whether the Israeli actress is the right choice, and are instead asking if a Black actress should be given the part.
To get historical for a minute, scholars have typically identified Cleopatra as mostly of Greek ancestry, but her race and skin color has been long debated.
That debate is continuing on Twitter as film buffs and pop culture enthusiasts discuss Gadot’s casting for what is shaping up to be a major blockbuster.

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Author Morgan Jenkins tweeted: “I’m sure Gal Gadot is going to do a wonderful job as Cleopatra. However, for me personally, I would love a Cleopatra who’s darker than a brown paper bag, because that seems a bit more historically accurate.”
I’m sure Gal Gadot is going to do a wonderful job as Cleopatra. However, for me personally, I would love a Cleopatra who’s darker than a brown paper bag, because that seems a bit more historically accurate.
— Morgan Jerkins (@MorganJerkins) October 11, 2020
While another writer Justina Ireland added: “How you gonna cast Gal Gadot to play Cleopatra when Lupita is RIGHT THERE?!?”
How you gonna cast Gal Gadot to play Cleopatra when Lupita is RIGHT THERE?!?
— Justina Ireland (@justinaireland) October 11, 2020
However, many have been defending Gadot and pointing out Cleopatra’s Greek heritage.
“Gal Gadot is gorgeous and she should play whatever she