At the premiere of the DC film The Flash at CinemaCon, director Andy Muschietti and producer Barbara Muschietti spoke for the first time about the controversy surrounding actor Ezra Miller.
During a Q&A session after the premiere in Los Angeles on Monday night, the sibling filmmakers were asked by the moderator how Miller was doing months after the controversy. Andy responded, “Ezra is well now.” He added, “We’re all hoping that they get better… They’re taking the steps to recovery.”
Miller, who uses they/them pronouns, has been dealing with mental health issues and has faced legal trouble in the past. In 2022, the actor was arrested multiple times in Hawaii for various crimes, including alleged assault and harassment towards minors. Miller was also charged in a burglary case in Vermont, pleading not guilty to felony burglary and guilty to a lesser charge of unlawful trespass.
Despite the controversy, both Muschiettis praised Miller’s commitment to the role of Barry Allen/The Flash. “During our shoot, during principal photography, their commitment to the role was something we’ve never seen,” Barbara said. “And the discipline to the work, the willingness – physical, mental, and just wanting to go beyond the pale – is just amazing.”
The controversy surrounding Miller began when a video went viral online in which they were seen choking a woman at a bar in Iceland. The incident sparked outrage among fans and led to calls for Miller to be removed from the role of The Flash. However, the filmmakers and Warner Bros. have stood by Miller, with the actor still set to reprise their role in upcoming DC films.
In addressing the controversy, the Muschiettis emphasized the importance of mental health and expressed their support for Miller’s recovery. “They’re dealing with mental health issues, but they’re well. We talked to them not too long ago, and they’re very committed to getting better,” Andy said.
Overall, the Q&A session offered a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes workings of The Flash and shed light on the ongoing controversy surrounding Miller. While the actor’s legal troubles and past behavior have sparked controversy, it seems that both the filmmakers and Warner Bros. remain committed to working with Miller and supporting their recovery.
