Benedict Cumberbatch has recently opened up about his role in Zoolander 2 that stirred controversy upon its release, admitting that he would not take on the same character today. The British actor portrayed All, a non-binary fashion model, in Ben Stiller’s 2016 comedy, a role that sparked backlash from LGBTQ activists who criticized the film’s portrayal of gender identity as insensitive and reductive.
Apologizing for the Role
In a recent interview with Variety, Cumberbatch candidly acknowledged the ongoing debate surrounding his portrayal of All, stating, “It’s a difficult one to talk about.” Reflecting on his performance, he admitted, “I’ve had to apologise for that quite a lot,” referring to the line from the film that attracted criticism. He recognized the negative reaction from the LGBTQ community, who argued that the film mocked non-binary identities.
Backlash Before the Release
The controversy began even before the film’s release, with the 2015 trailer showing Cumberbatch’s character, All, leading to an outcry from LGBTQ groups. Many activists accused the film of reinforcing harmful stereotypes about non-binary individuals. While the film’s comedic tone was meant to be light-hearted, the portrayal of gender fluidity was seen by many as reductive and offensive.
Admiration for the Film’s Team Despite the Fallout
Despite the backlash, Cumberbatch expressed deep respect for the creative team behind Zoolander 2. He praised director Ben Stiller and co-stars Owen Wilson and Will Ferrell, saying, “I love that group of people.” He noted that being a part of the sequel was a dream come true, especially given how iconic the first Zoolander film was. “I was a huge fan of the first one,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that the role didn’t resonate as intended. “It got complicated and it got misunderstood, and I upset people,” he admitted. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “I respect that, so I probably wouldn’t do that again now.”
A Career of Complex Characters
Known for his versatile career, Cumberbatch has earned critical acclaim across various mediums, from television to theatre to film. He first gained international fame for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in the BBC series Sherlock, a role that won him numerous awards. In cinema, Cumberbatch has shone in films such as The Imitation Game (2014), where he played the groundbreaking codebreaker Alan Turing, earning an Academy Award nomination. He also became a fan-favorite as Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with appearances in films like Doctor Strange (2016), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022).
While Cumberbatch’s role in Zoolander 2 remains a controversial chapter in his career, his acknowledgment of the situation and growth from it highlights his commitment to respecting all identities and learning from past mistakes.