Actor criticised online after saying “no one cares” about ballet and opera
March 8, 2026: Hollywood actor Timothée Chalamet is facing criticism after comments he made about ballet and opera went viral online. During a conversation with Matthew McConaughey at the University of Texas, the actor said he was not interested in working in art forms like ballet or opera, adding that “no one cares about this anymore.” The remark quickly sparked backlash on social media, with many users accusing him of disrespecting long-standing cultural traditions.
Several fans and critics expressed disappointment, with some suggesting the comment could harm his chances at the Academy Awards, where he is considered a frontrunner for Best Actor for his performance in Marty Supreme. Actor Jamie Lee Curtis also reacted by reposting a reel criticising Chalamet’s statement. Meanwhile, institutions including The Royal Ballet and Opera and English National Opera invited the actor to attend performances, while Seattle Opera jokingly offered a 14 percent ticket discount using the promo code “Timothée”.
Colombian ballet dancer Fernando Montaño also addressed the issue in a formal letter, saying comparisons between art forms can limit understanding and creativity. Chalamet has not yet responded to the backlash. Despite the controversy, he remains in the Best Actor race alongside nominees such as Wagner Moura, Michael B. Jordan, Ethan Hawke and Leonardo DiCaprio.