Charlize Theron has criticised comments by Timothée Chalamet about ballet and opera, defending the disciplines as demanding art forms that deserve greater recognition.
In an interview with The New York Times, Theron said dance, particularly ballet, was among the most physically challenging pursuits she had undertaken, drawing on her own early training as a dancer.
“Dancers are superheroes,” Theron said, describing the physical toll the craft takes on performers. She added that the effort often goes unnoticed, as dancers endure injuries and intense routines without widespread acknowledgement.
Her remarks come in response to comments made by Chalamet earlier this year, when he described ballet and opera as “forgotten” art forms struggling to retain relevance — statements that drew criticism online ahead of the Academy Awards.
Theron said such views risk undermining artistic disciplines that already face challenges in maintaining audiences and funding. “That was a very reckless comment on an art form… that we need to lift up constantly,” she said.
The actress also warned against dismissing traditional performing arts in an era of technological change. She argued that while artificial intelligence could transform aspects of the film industry, live performance — particularly dance — remains irreplaceable.
Theron described the physical hardships endured by ballet dancers, including injuries and infections, saying the profession requires relentless discipline and resilience. “You don’t get a day off,” she said, highlighting the continuous training needed to sustain performance standards.
She added that criticism of other artistic fields should be approached with care, emphasising respect across creative industries.
Chalamet’s earlier remarks had sparked a broader debate about the relevance and preservation of classical art forms in modern entertainment, with artists and audiences divided over their future.