It is no secret that Fantastic Four's fire-blazing Johnny Storm has blonde hair and blue eyes. After all, the Human Torch was already played by Captain America himself, Chris Evans, in the first two films.
Due to the character's distinct features, the announcement that the Human Torch will be played by 'Friday Night Lights' star Michael B. Jordan was met with initial skepticism. Twitter users sounded off on the subject, with some stating that the actor was the wrong race and others more who were simply excited about the casting news.
Jordan himself has decided to speak out about the controversy in an essay published on Entertainment Weekly. The 'Chronicle' actor admits that although the netizens' reactions have bothered him at first, he has learned to accept it. He confirms that 'Fantastic Four' creator Stan Lee has approved of the casting in an email to director Josh Trank.
The actor continues by stating that he has accepted the responsibility of standing up against hate and racism in Hollywood. He also had a message for all the naysayers.
"To the trolls on the Internet, I want to say: Get your head out of the computer," the actor wrote. "Go outside and walk around. Look at the people walking next to you. Look at your friends' friends and who they're interacting with. And just understand this is the world we live in. It's okay to like it."
Jordan started his acting career with minor roles in TV series like 'The Sopranos' and 'Cosby.' His first major film role was in the Keanu Reeves sports comedy 'Hardball.' He starred as Steve Montogemery in 2012's 'Chronicle' and was cast alongside Zac Efron in 'That Awkward Moment.' His latest project is the action drama 'Creed' with Sylvester Stallone, which is scheduled for release on November 25, 2015.
'Fantastic Four' also stars Miles Teller, Kate Mara and Jamie Bell. The film will premiere on August 17, 2015.
