‘The Batman: Part II’ Star Jeffrey Wright Sparks Conversation After Calling Being Black a “Political Term”

Jeffrey Wright has spoken out against racist attacks aimed at football star Kylian Mbappé, defending the French player and criticizing those who try to diminish his achievements. During a roundtable interview at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, the actor discussed the abuse Mbappé received online after France defeated Paraguay at the World Cup.

Following France’s victory, Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla criticized Mbappé on social media, making racist comments about the footballer. Wright strongly rejected those remarks and said Mbappé’s talent and impact on the sport speak for themselves.

“Look at this bullshit. What is she talking about?! I mean, here’s this guy who’s one of the greatest football players in the world,” Wright said during the interview. “It’s obvious to anyone who’s not a fucking idiot just by watching the man on the field, how significant he is as a player, how significant his contributions are to this game that the world loves.”

The actor added that attacks like these are often attempts by people to gain attention or power by targeting successful individuals. “They think they can somehow diminish how powerful he is on the field with their stupidity. It’s just remarkable,” Wright said.

Wright also pointed to France’s victory as proof that criticism cannot take away from someone’s achievements. “But the thing is, France won 2-0 yesterday, and this is the key. If who you are is powerful, there’s nothing they can do to stop you,” he explained. During the conversation, Wright also shared his thoughts on identity, saying that for him, being Black is connected to history and society rather than biology.

“I’m Black and for me, it’s a political term. It’s not a biological term,” Wright said. The actor also reflected on his connection to legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, whom he portrayed in Julian Schnabel’s 1996 film ‘Basquiat.’ Wright praised Basquiat’s creativity and the way his work represented individuality and freedom.

Wright is returning to Basquiat’s world in the upcoming film ‘Samo Lives,’ directed by Julius Onah. This time, he will play Basquiat’s father, Gerard Basquiat, while Kelvin Harrison Jr. takes on the role of the famous artist. “We finished shooting last fall. Jean-Michel Basquiat is played by Kelvin Harrison Jr., and I just saw the film. He’s astounding in the movie,” Wright said.

The actor explained that Basquiat’s legacy continues to matter because of his ability to express himself freely. “He represented many things but at its core, he represented the power of freedom. The power of creativity. The power of being genuinely oneself and express that,” Wright said.

Beyond discussing identity and art, Wright also shared updates about his upcoming return as Commissioner Gordon in ‘The Batman: Part II.’ He praised director Matt Reeves’ approach to the franchise and said the filmmaker brings a deeper level of storytelling to the superhero world.

“The screens have gotten oversaturated with comic book stuff, and some of it I found unwatchable, frankly. But this is different than most of it,” Wright said.

According to Wright, Reeves’ passion for filmmaking and his respect for classic cinema have helped create a more layered version of Batman. The actor believes the strength of these characters comes from the deeper themes behind them, including morality, identity, and human struggles.

From defending Mbappé to discussing art, race, and superhero storytelling, Wright continues to use his platform to highlight the importance of creativity, respect, and individuality.

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