Bryan Cranston Defends Casting Choice

Actor Bryan Cranston is putting his two cents in a long running conversation taking place in the film industry concerning representation on screen, specifically on whether able-bodied actors should play disabled individuals in films and TV. Cranston, who portrays a quadriplegic in “The Upside” opposite Kevin Hart and Nicole Kidman opening this weekend, defended his casting to the British Press Association. Cranston argues, “As actors we’re asked to play other people. If I, as a straight, older person, and I’m wealthy, I’m very fortunate, does that mean I can’t play a person who is not wealthy, does that mean I can’t play a homosexual?” The Wrap reports the debate on this issue has also extended to examine race and sexuality casting as well.