Bosses were slammed last week for casting Ed Skrein, a white actor, as Maj. Ben Daimio – a character who, in the original comics, had mixed Asian heritage.
Skrein stepped down overnight, saying he was unaware of the character’s original ethnicity when he accepted the job.
Now, comics artist Mignola has posted a short and sweet message in response.
“thank you @edskrein very nicely done…,” he tweeted.
Riz Ahmed, who previously starred in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, shared a similar sentiment.
“Respect to @edskrein for setting the example & reminding us progress requires sacrifice & representation is collective responsibility,” he posted.
Skrein had explained: “There has been intense conversation and understandable upset since that announcement, and I must do what I feel is right.
“It is clear that representing this character in a culturally accurate way holds significance for people, and that to neglect this responsibility would continue a worrying tendency to obscure ethnic minority stories and voices in the Arts.
“I feel it is important to honour and respect that. Therefore, I have decided to step down so the role can be cast appropriately.”
He went on: “Representation of ethnic diversity is important, especially to me as I have a mixed heritage family.
“It is our responsibility to make moral decisions in difficult times and to give voice to inclusivity. It is my hope that one day these discussions will become less necessary and that we can help make equal representation in the Arts a reality.
“I am sad to leave Hellboy but if this decision brings us closer to that day, it is worth it. I hope it makes a difference.”