One of the original West Side Story stars says Oscars organizers have a “duty” to secure a spot for Rachel Zegler after the actress revealed she wasn’t invited to the awards shows.
Uss Tamblyn, who played Riff in the 1961 version of the film, noted Zegler’s starring role in the 2021 remake and urged the academy to “prove her right.”
It comes after Zegler shocked fans after replying to a comment on Instagram asking them what she would be wearing to Sunday’s ceremony
“I’m not invited so my boyfriend’s sweatpants and flannel,” she wrote.
@The Academy As a voting member and original riff, let me say it’s your duty to get Rachel a seat at the Oscars. she STARS in #westsidestory who is nominated across the board. When they say representation matters, that’s what they mean. Please do her justice. https://t.co/X23XyOZo26
— Russ Tamblyn (@RussTamblyn) March 21, 2022
The news caused an uproar on social media, with many, including Tamblyn, complaining about the situation.
“@TheAcademy as a voting member and original riff, let me say it’s your duty to get Rachel a spot at the Oscars,” the actor wrote.
“She STARS in #Westsidestory, which is nominated across the board. When they say representation matters, that’s what they mean.
“Please do her justice.”
Zegler stars as one of the film’s protagonists, Maria, alongside Ansel Elgort and Ariana DeBose in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 remake of the West End hit musical.
Zegler stars as one of the film’s protagonists, Maria, alongside Ansel Elgort and Ariana DeBose in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 remake (Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP).
Previously, she thanked fans for their support and said she would “respect the process”.
“My goodness people!! I appreciate all the support, I really do,” she said.
“We are living in such unprecedented times and there is a lot of work behind the scenes to make the magic of the film a reality.
“That goes for film productions (like the one I’m fortunate enough to be shooting in London right now) and awards shows alike.
“Let’s all respect the process and I’ll put my phone x R down.”
West Side Story received seven nominations at this year’s Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress, Best Cinematography and Best Sound.
https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/movies/original-west-side-story-star-criticises-oscars-for-not-inviting-rachel-zegler-41473022.html Original West Side Story star slams Oscars for not inviting Rachel Zegler