Is Casting 'Whitewashed' Such as the Process of Casting White Actors in Roles Intended for Other Ethnicities, Actually Illegal in Hollywood?

No, it is not. In fact, it would not be possible to make ‘whitewashing’ illegal in the United States. However, the issue of representation in Hollywood has been gaining significant attention, both from within the industry and the broader public.

Understanding the Current Legal Landscape

Hollywood has always operated under certain legal frameworks that protect the rights of movie makers to cast actors based on various criteria, including what will best serve the film's narrative and success. The U.S. has laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that protect against discrimination based on race, gender, and other factors. These laws ensure that casting decisions are not made solely based on race or ethnicity but on the merits of the actor for the role.

Moreover, the Hawaiian Statue and Native American Rights provisions in various states ensure that individuals of specific ethnic backgrounds are recognized and can be given preference when it comes to roles. However, the overarching federal laws do not impose specific restrictions on whitewashing per se.

The Increasing Consciousness and Movements

Despite the legal framework being clear, whitewashing remains a contentious issue in the film industry. Awareness and activism surrounding this topic have reached new heights in recent years. Movements such as Adwoa Aboah’s Afro Punk (Afro-Punk) and the #OscarsSoWhite campaign have brought this issue into the public eye. These movements have sparked discussions about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the film industry.

Actors and filmmakers are now more vocal about their stance on the issue. Many are advocating for the use of actors that match the character’s ethnicity in the scripts, challenging the historical trend of casting white actors in non-white roles. Campaigns like #OyvindNess have highlighted the discrepancies and called for change.

The Future of Casting Practices

While legal changes are unlikely to happen, there is a growing movement within the industry to reform casting practices. Many actors, filmmakers, and industry professionals are pushing for a more inclusive approach that considers the cultural background of the characters. Studios are increasingly taking note of this and are being more conscious of the diversity of their casts.

Furthermore, there is an increasing shift towards diverse storytelling and representation. For instance, the Academy Awards have made efforts to increase representation in nominations. The 2023 Oscar nominations, for example, saw a record number of diverse candidates across all categories.

Conclusion

While it is not illegal to 'whitewash' in the United States, the movement towards diversity and inclusion is reshaping the landscape of Hollywood. The industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of casting actors that authentically represent their characters and the stories they are telling. As this shift continues, we can expect to see significant changes in how casting decisions are made in the future.