In a recent interview with Variety, actor Pedro Pascal expressed his views on the evolving landscape of casting in the entertainment industry. He championed the idea of casting actors based on their talent and suitability for a role, rather than being limited by race or gender. Pascal, known for his roles in popular series like "The Mandalorian" and "Game of Thrones," believes this approach is crucial for genuine representation.

The conversation touched upon the ongoing debate surrounding diversity in casting, referencing examples like the Broadway hit "Hamilton" and the recent live-action adaptation of "The Little Mermaid." Pascal argued against the rigid adherence to traditional character identities, suggesting that all roles should be open to reinterpretation, including changes in race or gender.

He emphasized the importance of "just casting a person into a role" rather than confining characters to their racial identity. Pascal directly addressed those who take issue with altering established characters, stating, "People get so butthurt about this kind of stuff, but who cares?" He believes that open casting is the most effective way to progress and promote inclusivity.

Pascal even shared an anecdote about reading a script and envisioning a traditionally masculine character as a woman, advocating for originality and inclusive approaches to storytelling. However, he also acknowledged the potential pitfalls of forced representation solely to address political concerns, emphasizing that representation should serve the narrative first and foremost.

He cautioned against rigid adherence to representation guidelines, instead encouraging continued exploration and understanding of how representation can best enhance storytelling. Pascal expressed his belief that this ongoing dialogue and attention to inclusive casting are essential for positive change within the industry.