Native American Actors on Adam Sandler Film Told to Leave ‘if Overly Sensitive’
In a cellphone video taken on the set of "The Ridiculous Six," actors complain about "disrespectful" jokes targeting Native Americans.A serious rift was exposed on the set of “The Ridiculous Six,” Adam Sandler’s spoof of classic Western films.
In a cellphone video taken by actor Goldie Tom, a man identified as a producer on the film tells a group of Native American actors that they can go if they are “overly sensitive” about the script for the Western comedy.
“Here’s the thing,” the man says. “If you are overly sensitive about it … then you should probably leave.”
In the video, posted to Youtube by Indian Country Today, the actors complain about jokes in the script that they characterized as “disrespectful,” particularly in their depiction of women.
Characters in the script are named Wears No Bra and Beaver’s Breath.
“We don’t need to sell out our people,” one actor complains.
“I understand completely,” a crew member replies. “But we’re not going to change Beaver Breath.”
Written by Adam Sandler and Tim Herlihy, the film boasts a large cast of comedy veterans, including Will Forte, Steve Buscemi, Terry Crews, Steve Zahn, David Spade and Rob Schneider.
All told, more than a dozen actors walked off the set.
Read here for more on the history of American racism.
–Posted by Jenna Berbeo
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