Universal Pictures apologises after Laverne Cox’s Promising Young Woman character dubbed by male actor

Universal Pictures has apologised after Laverne Cox’s character in Promising Young Woman was dubbed by a male actor in the Italian version of the film.

Laverne, a transgender woman, plays Gail alongside Carey Mulligan’s Cassandra in the Emerald Fennell-directed revenge thriller.

However, a clip recently posted by Universal Pictures Italy is reported to have had voice actor Roberto Pedicini dubbing her character in a deep tone.

Italian actress Vittoria Schisano, who is also a trans woman, dubbed it a ‘straight-up act of violence,’ and branded the decision ‘insulting’ when speaking to The Guardian.

A spokesperson for Universal Pictures International told the publication in a statement: ‘We are deeply grateful to Laverne and the transgender community for opening our eyes to a bias that neither we nor many in our industry had recognised.

‘While there was no malicious intent behind this mistake, we are working diligently to fix it. We have begun redubbing Ms Cox’s voice with female actors in our international territories and are pushing back release dates to ensure the correct version is available.

‘We are sorry for the pain caused but are thankful that we can address the situation on this film and prevent similar mistakes from happening again on future projects.’

Promising Young Woman follows Carey’s character as she’s traumatised by an event in her past, and seeks revenge on those who cross her path.

The Crown star Emerald won an Oscar for best original screenplay, while the film also cleaned up at the Baftas and the Critics’ Choice Awards.

Laverne has also seen huge success in recent years, winning many fans for her role as Sophia Burset in Orange is the New Black.

She went on to appear in the 2019 remake of Charlie’s Angels, as well as TV shows Dear White People and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Got a story? If you’ve got a celebriy story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : RuPaul and Laverne Cox pay tribute as trailblazing artist Ari Gold dies aged 47

MORE : Laverne Cox drops out of sex work documentary following ‘outrage’ from sex workers