Paris Jackson Reacts To Controversial ‘Urban Myths’ Casting For Michael Jackson Role: I’m ‘Incredibly Offended’

Michael Jackson fans were not the only ones who expressed their frustrations over the casting of “Urban Myths,” where Joseph Fiennes played the role of the late pop icon. Paris Jackson, the daughter of the king of pop, also shared her disgust over the cast choices on Twitter.

On Wednesday, Paris took to Twitter to express her thoughts on the controversial casting for the made-for-television movie, “Urban Myths.” Paris, while reacting to the photos of Fiennes as her late dad Michael, said she was “incredibly offended” by it, as per E! News.

Paris’ tweet, however, was not the only negative reaction that came from the Jackson clan. In fact, People revealed her cousin and Michael’s nephew Taj Jackson also tweeted his dismay over the casting issue, saying he felt that their family was disrespected.

Paris and Taj’s tweets of disappointment came after Fiennes, a white British man, was chosen to play the role of Michael in the 30-minute Sky Arts special, titled “Urban Myths.” According to Us Weekly, the made-for-TV film was based on Michael’s alleged road trip with Elizabeth Taylor (Stockard Channing) and Marlon Brando (Bryan Cox) in the wake of the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

Paris, who further expressed her dismay in a series of tweets, said the portrayal is shameful and insulting. “Urban Myth” director Ben Palmer, however, defended Fiennes’ casting, saying the decision was based on the actor’s performance and not on his physical appearance, Daily Mail reported.

Despite the “whitewashing” backlash, Palmer added Fiennes will “unlock the spirit” of Michael’s character in the satirical special. He also stressed that fans should never jump into conclusions without watching the film.

“We were casting Michael Jackson in 2001 and that obviously is a challenge in terms of the physical resemblance,” Palmer told The Guardian. “We were really looking for the performance that could unlock the spirit, and we really think Joe Fiennes has done that. He's given a really sweet, nuanced, characterful performance.”

What are your thoughts on the controversial casting of “Urban Myths?” Do you agree with Paris and Taj Jackson’s reactions? Please share your comments below.