“Doctor Strange 2”: Benedict Cumberbatch comments on America Chavez’s censorship and more controversies

The actor Benedict Cumberbatchwhich interprets Stephen Strange in the MCU films, commented on the censorship that “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” suffered after it was confirmed that America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) would be portrayed in the film as an openly homosexual character.

After the decision made by Marvel Studios, which follows nothing more than what has already been portrayed in the comics, countries such as Egypt and Saudi Arabia have decided not to show the film, since the studio together with Disney refuse to remove 12 seconds from the 126. minutes of the plot, which make reference to the sexual option of Chavez.

While promoting the “Doctor Strange” sequel, Cumberbatch was asked about the boycott made by extremely conservative countries, where homosexual representation in the media is illegal.

“It’s a shame this is an expected disappointment. We’ve learned from these repressive regimes that lack of tolerance is excluding people who deserve to be, not just included, but celebrated for who they are and made to feel part of a society and culture, and not punished for their sexuality. It seems really out of step with everything we experience as a species, let alone the globalization of different cultures. But frankly, it’s an even stronger reason to include a member of the LGBTQ+ community in our movies.”began the star.

“This character was created like that in the comics. It’s not something we created to bring attention to the causes of diversity. We included her because she’s amazing as a character. And her sexual orientation is just one aspect of her among so many others. And that’s all it should be, but unfortunately, it’s now also politically incorrect to assume who you are. And I wish it weren’t so. I wish we could have a normalized conversation about this without seeing it as a problem. But we are far from that, so we still have to fight to get there. We still have to push to make inclusion and equality a normal issue. But even on a small scale, I’m glad she’s in the movie and that Disney is contributing to gay representation.”added the interpreter of Strange. (via reddit)

talking more about America Chavezthe director Sam Raimi (“Spider-Man”) had already commented on its importance to the story of the second film, and the moment in which the protagonist finds himself. THE Empire Magazinehe said that “Doctor Strange is still learning about the multiverse, and there’s one character who has the ability to travel through it. He’s often a know-it-all, so having him learn from a young girl is a smart move.”.

Beside Cumberbatch and Gomezare confirmed in the list Elizabeth Olsenhow Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch; Rachel McAdamshow Christine Palmer; Benedict Wong how Wong; Chiwetel Ejiofor how bite; and Patrick Stewarthow Professor Xavier.

“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” opens in Brazilian movie theaters on May 5th.