LOS ANGELES, July 10: The ‘Star Trek Beyond’ actor and co-writer Simon Pegg is the latest to jump into the debate surrounding the sexuality of ‘Star Trek’ character Hikaru Sulu.
George Takei, who originally played the character and is openly gay, had criticised the makers for making Sulu gay in the upcoming movie where the character will be played by John Cho.
Pegg, who stars as Scotty and also co-wrote the latest addition to the sci-fi franchise, says he disagrees with Takei’s stand that they should not have made changes in the original story, said the Hollywood Reporter.
I have huge love and respect for George Takei, his heart, courage and humor are an inspiration. However, with regards to his thoughts on our Sulu, I must respectfully disagree with him.”
Highlighting the sexuality of Sulu was actually Pegg’s idea and director Justin Lin, both of whom wanted to pay respect to Takei’s legacy as a sci-fi icon and LGBT activist.
But Takei said he thought it was “really unfortunate” that
the filmmakers had turned to Sulu instead of introducing a new character.
“He’s right, it is unfortunate, it’s unfortunate that the screen version of the most inclusive, tolerant universe in science fiction hasn’t featured an LGBT character until now,” added Pegg.
“We could have introduced a new gay character, but he or she would have been primarily defined by their sexuality, seen as the ‘gay character,’ rather than simply for who they are, and isn’t that tokenism?” (PTI)
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