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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Timothee Chalamet criticized for dismissing ballet and opera

Timothee Chalamet criticized for dismissing ballet and opera

Published Mar 7, 2026 08:50 pm

Oscar-nominated actor Timothée Chalamet has faced criticism from the performing arts community after making remarks that appeared to dismiss ballet and opera as art forms lacking widespread audience interest.

Timothee Chalamet (Instagram)
Timothee Chalamet (Instagram)

In February, Chalamet spoke with Matthew McConaughey at the University of Texas about the importance of preserving cinema.

"I don't want to be working in ballet, or opera, or things where it's like, 'Hey, keep this thing alive, even though like no one cares about this anymore. All respect to all the ballet and opera people out there," said Timothee, who is nominated at the 2026 Oscars for his critically-acclaimed film "Marty Supreme."

​Chalamet's comments have been criticized by stage artists, opera houses, and ballet companies, though some used the controversy as a promotional opportunity, according to BBC News.

In the interview with Matthew McConaughey, shared by Variety on YouTube last month, Chalamet quickly admitted that his comments might be controversial. "I just lost 14 cents in viewership. I just took shots for no reason," he remarked.

​Canadian mezzo-soprano Deepa Johnny called Chalamet's comments a "disappointing take," while Hollywood star Jamie Lee Curtis questioned on Instagram: "Why are any artists taking shots at any other artists?"

​American artist Franz Szony responded: "Two classical art forms have existed for centuries and require immense talent and discipline—qualities this man will never possess. It speaks volumes about his taste level. Also, saying 'no disrespect' after making a disrespectful comment actually means 'I disrespect art I don't understand.'"

​The ballet community also spoke out, with choreographer Martin Chaix arguing that the art is "very much alive".

​"If anything, in a world where AI is reshaping cinema faster than most realise, the unmediated human presence of ballet and opera becomes more essential, not less. I hope he finds his way into a theatre."

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