Jack Whitehall sparks fury as he is ‘cast as Disney’s first openly gay character’ despite being straight

Jack Whitehall has faced a backlash over reports that he has been cast as Disney’s first openly gay character.

The British comedian has reportedly landed himself a role in forthcoming action adventure The Jungle Cruise, but Disney fans are questioning why a straight actor has been cast instead of a gay actor.

According to reports, he will star alongside Emily Blunt and The Rock in what has been described as a “turning point” in Disney’s colourful history.

The film is supposedly set in the 19th century, where LGBTQ+ rights were non-existent.

Whitehall is set to take the role of a “fun, effete” man who “makes clear he has no interest in women”, according to the Sun.

However, the announcement has left some fans unimpressed, with many questioning why a gay actor hadn't been cast in the role.

One wrote: “See Look I've Got nought against @jackwhitehall and all, but come on Having a gay character is good but why not have an LGBT+ person play the role, they have and know the challenges from personal experience, it will be fun to know if any LGBT+ people were offered the role, Disney.” (sic)

Another commented: “If Disney really cared about supporting lgbt+ representation, they’d have found an lgbt+ actor for the role. I also GUARANTEE this person would’ve also been right for the role, if not better.

“Secondly, there are more lgbt+ actors out there than this small pool that Hollywood allows as token gestures, which is another highlight of discrimination.

“Would they have been a big enough name? Who gives a f***, if they’re good and the casting is right they don’t need to be.“And f*** Jack Whitehall for taking it, if he had any sense he’d say no and insist it be offered to an lgbt+ person.”

A third posted: “I don't have a problem with straight actors playing a camp gay guy. I have a problem with Jack Whitehall, who is not a good actor whatsoever, portraying what he thinks is 'camp'.”

Standard Online has contacted representatives of Whitehall for comment.