Marvel has released a statement to People regarding the casting of Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One in their upcoming Doctor Strange film.
The character, which was an Asian man in the comics, has been re-imagined for the film.
“Marvel has a very strong record of diversity in its casting of films and regularly departs from stereotypes and source material to bring its MCU [Marvel Cinematic Universe] to life,” the statement reads. “The Ancient One is a title that is not exclusively held by any one character, but rather a moniker passed down through time, and in this particular film the embodiment is Celtic. We are very proud to have the enormously talented Tilda Swinton portray this unique and complex character alongside our richly diverse cast.”
Doctor Strange will be released November 4, 2016.